8.

CULTURE
8.1. MONUMENTS OF NATIONAL IMPORTANCE (MNI)
Why in news?
Recently, the Economic Advisory Council to
the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) has released
its report ‘Monuments of National
Importance: Urgent Need for
Rationalization’.
India’s Cultural Heritage and Provisions for
its Protection
The historical monuments of India
represent the glorious and diverse cultural
history. Representing India’s tangible
cultural heritage spread across the country,
it includes 40 properties inscribed on the
UNESCO World Heritage List.
• Legal protection to MNIs: Article 49 of
the Constitution of India directs the
state to protect monuments and places
and objects of national importance across the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
country. • Established in 1861, it is an attached office of the Ministry of
○ Accordingly, the Ancient Monuments and Culture.
Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, • It is the premier organization of India for the archaeological
1958 (AMASR Act, 1958) was enacted to research and protection of the cultural heritage of India.
better preserve India’s historical and • It is engaged in protection, preservation, and conservation of
archaeological treasure. Centrally Protected Monuments/Sites of national importance
○ The AMASR Act (amended in 2010) including 24 World Heritage Property.
provides for the preservation of ancient o As of August 2022, India had 3695 MNI under the AMASR Act,
and historical monuments and 1958.
o Also, we have over 4500 State Protected Monuments in the
archaeological sites and remains which are
country.
deemed or declared to be of ‘national
importance’ under the law
(refer image).
• Management of NMI: The
Ministry of Culture manages all
the Centrally Protected
Monuments (CPMs) of National
Importance, through the
Archaeological Survey of India.
○ The National Monuments
Authority (NMA),
established in 2010 under
‘The Ancient Monuments
and Archaeological Sites and
Remains (Amendment and Validation) Act, 2010’, helps Central Government in grading and classifying
Monuments of National Importance (MNI).
○ NMA also looks after the limits of prohibited and regulated areas.

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 ✓ Prohibited Area, i.e., 100-meter (m) radius of the monument having a ban on construction activities, and
✓ Regulated Area, i.e., 200 m further away from prohibited area with regulations on construction.
Challenges in Protection of MNI
• Legal Ambiguity: Lack of a clear definition of ‘national importance’ in the AMASR Act, 1958 itself or in the National
Policy for Conservation (2014).
• Lack of Byelaws: NMA, through the 2010 amendment, was mandated to prepare byelaws for all the 3695 monuments.
However, since then, byelaws have been prepared only for a few monuments (around 126 MNI till 2021). Most of
them are awaiting the nod of ASI.
Missing Monuments of India
• Selection Errors: The lack of definition,
• 92 monuments missing: In 2013, the Comptroller and Auditor
substantive process and criteria leads to selection General’s (CAG) Performance Audit of Preservation and
errors such as: Conservation of Monuments and Antiquities found 92 MNIs
○ Minor monuments such as colonial graves missing based on physical inspection of only 1655 monuments.
and cemeteries being considered as MNI. • ASI traced/identified 42 monuments that physically existed, 14
○ Inclusion of movable antiquities such as affected due to urbanization and 12 submerged under
inscriptions, tablets or small statues with no reservoirs dams.
fixed address being included as MNI. o The remaining 24 monuments and sites still remain
○ Untraceable/Missing Monuments still untraceable; including 11 monuments from Uttar Pradesh
considered as MNI. and two each in Delhi and Haryana.
• No concept of missing monuments: CAG Survey highlighted
• Absence of Survey/review of monuments: No
that ASI had no cognizance of these monuments prior to its
comprehensive survey of MNIs to identify study. Add to that, the AMASR Act doesn’t include the concept
monuments which are of national importance or of Missing Monuments.
of those which had lost their stature. o Section 35 of the AMASR Act provides for removal of
• Geographically Skewed Distribution of monuments if they cease to be of national importance.
Monuments: Though spread across the country,
the geographical distribution of MNIs is imbalanced with:
o Over 60% of MNIs are in just five states (Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, and
Maharashtra).
o Delhi alone has 173 MNIs but a large state like Telangana has only 8.
• Inadequate Expenditure on Upkeep of Monuments: The budgetary allocation for MNIs preservation and protection
is woefully little and inadequate. E.g.
o In 2019-20, the budgetary allocation for “conservation, preservation and environmental development” of 3695
MNI was only ₹428 crores or ₹11 lakhs per MNI.
o The fiscal imbalance is further aggravated as the Ministry of Culture or ASI isn’t allowed to use the revenue
collected at monuments through various ticketing, photography, filming, etc.
• Vacancies in ASI: ASI has large vacancies of Monument Attendants and security guards who are responsible for day-
to-day maintenance and security of the monuments.
• Lack of Clarity on NMA’s role and responsibility: The Separation of responsibilities between ASI (maintenance of
monuments) and NMA (development of surrounding area) lacks clarity.
Way Forward
• Proper definition, clear criteria, and a multi-layered procedure for declaring monuments to be of national
importance. The Operational Guidelines of UNESCO on World Heritage Sites can help in this regard.
• Immediately scrutinize and rationalize the MNI list through survey of the remaining CPMs which were not covered
by CAG in its Audit survey.
o Also, the ASI could maintain digital logbooks of each MNI with its attributes (image, exact location etc.) and
mandatory fixed time schedule surveys from ASI in future.
o It will help in having monument-specific prohibited and regulated areas as well as in digitization of the whole
approval process for residents living near the monuments.
• Formation of State Level Coordination Committees for coordination and resolution of important issues between
centre and states.
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 o Also, monuments with local importance should be handed over to the respective states for their protection and
upkeep.
• Trace Missing Monuments by using scientific tools and archival records. E.g., use of satellites, field explorations and
periodic surveys with the help of old revenue records, revenue maps and published reports.
• Empower NMA by making it an autonomous body under ASI and giving ASI responsibilities on monument
maintenance to NMA.
○ The main focus of ASI should be on archaeology research, excavation, restorations and maintenance of museums.
• Fill vacant positions and use Technology for round-the-clock watch on MNIs with periodic inspection of cleanliness.
o Local Panchayats and police can also be involved in safeguarding the monuments and if necessary, the AMASR
Act may be amended in this regard.
• Increase fund allocation for protection and preservation of MNI through special budget allocation for protection,
preservation, and restoration.
o Opening new revenue streams for MNI through tickets, events, fees etc. and encouraging participation of local
people, NGOs, and societies (like INTACH). E.g., Adopt a Heritage initiative by the Ministry of Tourism along with
the Ministry of Culture and ASI.

8.2. CHARAIDEO MAIDAMS (AHOM BURIAL MOUNDS)

Why in News? UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Government of India has decided to • World Heritage Site is the designation for places on Earth that are of
nominate Assam’s Charaideo Maidams outstanding universal value to humanity or any of various areas or objects
or Moidams (Ahom Burial Mounds) for inscribed on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage List.
the UNESCO World Heritage Centre for
• Sites are designated as World Heritage Site under the ‘Convention Concerning
the year 2023.
the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage’, which was
More on News adopted in the year 1972.
• As of January 2023, there are 1157 World Heritage Site. These Sites are
• The announcement was made in categorized into three types namely Cultural site, Natural site and Mixed site.
the backdrop of 400th birth • World Heritage Site in India
anniversary of Lachit Barphukan, • There are 40 World Heritage Sites. Out of these, 32 are cultural, 7 are natural,
legendary Ahom (Also known as Tai and one, the Khangchendzonga National Park (Sikkim), is of mixed type.
Ahom) general.
• If it gets selected as a World Heritage Site then it would
be first cultural heritage in the northeast.
About Charaideo Maidams
• Charaideo Maidams are mounds containing the remains of
the royalty of the Ahom dynasty.
• Features and Location
o Mounds are located along the foothills of the
Patkai range.
o These are commonly known as the Pyramids of
Assam.
• Source of Information
o The Changrung Phukan (canonical text developed
by the Ahoms) provides detail about the different
aspects of the Maidams.
• Structure
o They are vaulted chamber. They are often double
storied.
o Hemispherical mud-mound layers of bricks and earth
is laid at the top.

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 ✓ And, the base of the mound is reinforced by a polygonal
toe-wall and an arched gateway on the west.
o Each vaulted chamber has a centrally raised platform where
the body was laid.
o Excavations have also found that several objects used by
royal family like royal insignia, objects made in wood or ivory
or iron, gold pendants, etc. were also buried with them.
• Decline of this Burial System: After 18th century, many
converted to Buddhism and others adopted Hindu method of
cremation.
o Then, they began entombing the cremated bones and ashes
in a Maidam.
Phases of Maidams Construction
Period 13th CE to 17th CE 18th CE Onwards
Material Used Wood was used as the primary material for construction. Stone and burnt bricks of various sizes were used
for construction.

Ahom Dynasty
• Ahom dynasty was founded by Chao Lung Siu-Ka-Pha in 1228. He was a Lachit Barphukan (legendary general or
Shan prince of Mong Mao who came to Assam from Myanmar, crossing Commander in chief of Ahom dynasty)
the Patkai Mountains. In 1662, Army of Mughal Emperor
• Charaideo (east of Guwahati) was the first capital of the Ahom dynasty. Aurangzeb invaded Assam and captured
o Charaideo means dazzling city above the mountain. Guwahati. In the Battle of Saraighat (1671),
• In 16th century, under the rule of Suhungmung, Ahom captured Lachit Barphukan defeated Mughal force and
territories of the Chutiya and the Kachari kingdoms. recovered the territories which were
captured by Mughals.

Administration: Society and Religion

• Ahom king was known as Swargadeo. • Society was divided into clans or khels. A khel often controlled several
• Council of ministers was referred as patra villages.
mantris. • Several elements from the Hinduism such as Varna system was adopted
• Borbarua (military and judicial head) and by them.
Borphukan (military and civil) were important • In beginning, they worshiped tribal gods.
officers. • They adopted Hinduism, during the reign of Sudangpha (1397-1407).
• They replaced the older political system of the However, they did not totally give up their traditional beliefs.
bhuiyans (landlords). • The king granted land to the temples and Brahamanas.
Economy: Military:
• Paik system was followed by them, in which • Ahom Army consisted of infantry, navy, artillery, elephantry, cavalry and
people worked as a corvee labour (unpaid or spies.
forced labour). • Adult recruited under Paik system were used as a militia in return for a
• They introduced wet rice cultivation in upper land.
Assam that was largely a marshy and thinly • The Ahom soldiers were expert in guerrilla fighting. By this tactic, they
populated land. were succeeded in thwarting the mighty Mughals.
End/Decline:
• Ahom rule came to end with the annexation of Assam by British in 1826 (Treaty of Yandaboo).

8.3. SAMMED SHIKHAR AND SHETRUNJAY HILL

Why in News?
Jain community organised protests across the country over the religious site of Sammed Shikhar on Parasnath hill in
Jharkhand and Shetrunjay hill in Palitana of Gujarat.

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More on News
• In Jharkhand, the issue is about Parasnath hill being declared a tourist spot
and an eco-sensitive zone.
o The Jain community has been protesting against the Jharkhand
government's tourism policy which intended to develop Sammed
Shikharji in Parasnath hills as a tourist destination.
o Also in 2019, Parasnath hill was declared as an eco-sensitive zone by the
Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Ministry
planned to develop eco-tourism over here.
o Jain community believes that it will deteriorate sanctity of their religious site.
• In Gujarat, the row is over the vandalising of Santhals assert their claim over Parasnath Hill
Adinath Dada’s Pagla, a marble carving • In the backdrop of protest from Jain community, Union Ministry of
representing the feet of Lord Adinath, the Environment, Forest and Climate Change banned sale of liquor
first Jain Tirthankar. and non-vegetarian food within 10 km radius of the Parasnath hill.
o Jain community also expressed their • This decision was opposed by the Santhals, the largest tribal
concern over the illegal community of Jharkhand.
commercialisation, mining of Shatrunjaya o They consider Parasnath hill as their Marang Buru (hill deity).
Hill. o This decision will affect their religious rituals such as animal
sacrifice.
o The Jains are demanding that Shetrunjay
• During British Period, the dispute between Santhal and Jains over
hill and the area around it be protected so Parasnath hill was heard by Privy Council [the highest court in the
as to maintain its holiness. British empire].
Sammed Shikhar o The Council ruled in the favour of the Santhal Tribe.

• Also known as Sammet Shikharji (literal meaning is venerable

peak) or Shikharji.
o It is also called ‘Siddha Kshetra’ and ‘Tirtharaj’ in Jainism,
which means, ‘King of Pilgrimages’.
• It is situated on the Parasnath hill in Jharkhand.
o It has been named after the 23rd Jain tirthankara
‘Parshvanatha’.
• It is believed that 20 of the 24 Jain Tirthankars (Except
bhagvan Rishabdev, bhagavan Vasupujaya, bhagvan
Nemihatha and bhagvan Mahavira) have attained salvation
(“moksha” after meditating) at this Shikhar.
o Tirthankara means “full moon”, which is a metaphor for
Keval Gnan.
o A Tirthankar is not an incarnation of the God.
o He is an ordinary soul that born as a human and attains
the states of a Tirthankar as a result of intense practices
of penance, equanimity and meditation.
• Shikharji is worshiped by both the Digambaras and the
Svetambaras.
• Shikharji is also part of ‘Svetambara Pancha Tirth’ (five
principal pilgrimage shrines), the other four are Ashtapad,
Girnar, Dilwara Temples of Mount Abu and Shatrunjaya.

Shetrunjay hill

• It is situated at Palitana in Bhavnagar district of Gujarat.

• It is also known as Pundarikgiri (named after Pundarika, grandson of Adinath).
• It is situated on the banks of the Shetrunji River.
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 o It rises at Chachai hills in Gir Forest of Junagadh district.
o It is an east flowing river and empties into the gulf of Cambay.
• Adinath or Rishabhanatha, the first Tirthankara delivered his first sermon at this hill.
• The temples over the hill were built in the eleventh and twelfth century.

8.4. ROOTS OF DEMOCRATIC VALUES IN INDIA

Why in News?
In a recent episode of Mann ki Baat PM while observing that India is a democratic society by nature stated that democracy
has been an integral part of our daily lives for centuries.
Institutions/practices mentioned by PM
Particulars About Democratic Values
• This inscription dated around 920 A.D in reign of Parantaka Chola-I (907-955 Elected Representatives,
AD). Voting Rights, Conduct of
• It is an ancient Chola village once known as Chaturvedimangalam and is located elected representatives
near Chennai in Tamil Nadu.
• Chola self-government was built upon 'general assemblies' or 'sabhas' or 'maha
sabha' of villages.
Uthiramerur • As per Uthiramerur inscriptions on Chola Kudavolai Election System, every
Inscriptions village was categorised as kudumbu (ward in modern day parlance) where
representatives of general assembly were elected.
• Qualification for contesting: Must own land, own a house built on legally-
owned site, have knowledge of 'Mantrabrahmana’, and above 35 years of age
and below 70 years.
• Disqualification: of elected members for acts of misconduct included accepting
bribes, misappropriating else’s property.
• It was established by Lord Basaveshwara to facilitate gathering for philosophy Parliamentary
and experience. Democracy
Lord Basaveshwara (1105-1167)
• Anubhava • He was a 12th century poet and born in
Mantapa was one Karnataka.
of the earliest • Known for Socio-Religious Reforms, Anubhava
Anubhava
Parliament in Mantapa, Vachana Literature and Lingayat
Mantapa of history of Movement in south India.
Lord mankind. • Basava Purana, written by Palkuriki Somanatha
Basaveshwara o Prabhudeva, a in 13th-century, holds full account to
great Yogi, was Basavanna’s life and ideas.
the President
and Lord Basava acted as the Prime Minister.
• Only difference between the present-day parliament and Anubhava Mantapa is
that members were not elected by people but were picked up or nominated
by higher authorities of Mantapa.
• It ruled the region comprising present-day Telangana and Andhra Pradesh from Local Self-government
Kakatiya 12th to 14th centuries, with Warangal as Capital.
Tradition • There were elected committees in the villages to look after installation and
maintenance of tanks, canals, and reservoirs.
• Bhakti movement facilitated the accommodation of interpretations of Right to Equality,
freedom and equality and paved the way for the emergence of a secular Secularism, Equality of
Bhakti democratic society. opportunity, Promotion
movement • It also aimed at supporting the cause of establishing egalitarian society, of welfare of the people.
women empowerment, and community development based on social
democracy.
Other evidences of democratic values in earlier India
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 About Democratic Values
• Two sets of assembly, namely, ‘sabha’ and ‘samiti’ figuring in the ‘Atharva Veda’ Adult Franchise,
and said they were similar to the present-day Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Elected bodies, Local
• Buddhist and Jain texts list several republican states of the time. Lichchavi state self-government,
Democracy in of Vaishali, in particular, deserves special mention. Protection of life and
Ancient India • The villages ruled by their elected representatives and were, therefore, personal liberty
autonomous and self-governing administrative units.
• In the Mahabharata’s Shanti Parva, republics are mentioned along with the
essential features of administering them.
• Vedas describe at least two forms of republican governance. The first would Duties of the King
consist of elected kings and second where power vested in a council or sabha. (like present day PM
duties), Cabinet
System, Federalism,
Aitareya • It has a logical bifurcation of various types of kingdoms including
Protection of Rights
Brahaman Swa-rajya as an important form of government.
of citizens, Remedies
for violation of rights.
Dharma • They impressed upon kings to look upon the subjects as God and
shastras serve them with love and reverence.
Principles of
democracy in Atharvaveda • All human beings have equal rights over food and water.
ancient
scriptures • They were collections of rules of Dharma including civil rights and
criminal liabilities as also Raj Dharma (Constitutional law).
• King was to govern as per Dharma (similar to Article 13 which
provides for protection of rights of people).
Smritis and • Kings who failed in protection and welfare of subjects were
Puranas and deposed by subjects (Dusthiritu of Daspurush dynasty).
Vedic • There is a mention of both unitary and federal form of systems.
samhitas
Kautilya’s • Various departments – Defence, Revenue and Agriculture among
Arthshastra others.
• Monaps (one of the ethnic groups in Arunachal Pradesh) during 11th century began Three-tier
to establish a system of democratically elected village chiefs with decentralized government, Local
Democratic self-governing councils. self-government,
tradition • Village of Adi Tribe (Siang districts of Arunachal Pradesh) are self-governing and an Elections, Duties, and
among the independent administration with legislative and executive powers. responsibilities of the
tribes of • Traditional Khasi polity has a three-tier system. At the lowest level is the village, Chief authority.
Northeast India middle level is Durbar Raid and at apex is the Durba Hima or the State assembly.
• Among several Naga tribes, despite chief having the highest authority in the
village, authority he enjoyed is subjected to conformity of the village council.

8.5. NEWS IN SHORTS

8.5.1. EXCAVATION AT HARAPPAN SITE
IN GUJARAT
• Excavations at Juna Khatiya village (Kutch district)
found rows of graves with skeletal remains, ceramic
pots, beaded jewellery, animal bones etc.
o These are from 3,200 BCE to 2,600 BCE, (pre-urban
Harappan) predating several other Harappan sites
in the state.
• Key findings
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o Other sites like Dholavira have a cemetery in and
around the town, but no major habitation has
been discovered here.
o Site demonstrates transition from earth-mound
burials to stone graves.
o Pottery have features and style similar to those
excavated from early Harappan sites in Sindh and
Balochistan.
o Pebbles of local rock, basalt, etc were used for
construction, and clay was used to bind them
together.
• Major burial practises of Indus Valley Civilization (also
known as Harappan Civilisation)
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 o Although varied across sites, there were three o A circular terrace (medhi) for ritual
known types of burial customs: complete burial, circumambulation.
fractional burial and urn burial (Burial of the ashes
after cremation).
o Most common burial method was placing body • About Nalanda Mahavihara
with head towards north in a simple pit or brick o It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with
chamber. archaeological remains of a monastic and
o Grave goods including food, pottery, tools and scholastic institution from 3rd century BCE to 13th
ornaments can be found along with the body. century CE.
o Lothal provides evidence of burial of pairs of male ✓ Gautam Buddha as well as Mahavira stayed at
and female together. Nalanda.
✓ Other famous scholars at Nalanda Nagarjuna,
Dharampala, Dinnaga, Jinamitra Santaraksita
etc.
✓ Imminent pilgrim monks like Hiuen Tsang and
I-tsing also visited.
o It prospered under Gupta Dynasty, Harsha of
Kannauj and Pala Dynasty.
o It includes stupas, shrines, viharas (residential and
educational buildings) and important art works in
stucco, stone and metal.

8.5.3. HARVEST FESTIVALS

• Makar Sankranti is major harvest festival celebrated
8.5.2. NALANDA MAHAVIHARA across India and different states celebrate festival
under different names, traditions, and festivities.
• Archeological Survey of India discovered two 1200-
o Festival is dedicated to Sun God, Surya and marks
year-old miniature votive stupas at Nalanda
the first day of sun’s transit into Makara
Mahavihara.
(Capricorn).
• Votive stupas (offered in fulfillment of a vow) were
o Makar Sankranti heralds end of winter and start of
discovered near Sarai Tila mound within premises of
longer days as sun moves northward.
Nalanda Mahavihara in Bihar.
• Stupa, Sanskrit for heap, is a mound-like
(hemispherical) burial structure containing relics of
Buddhist monks.
o E.g., Sanchi Stupa built over Buddha relics.
• Architectural features of Stupa:
o A hemispherical mound or anda’s shaped dome
o A square railing or harmika
o Central pillar supporting a triple-umbrella form
(chattra), representing three jewels of Buddhism.
o Enclosure wall with decorated gateways (toranas)
at cardinal directions.
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8.5.4. THULLAL
• Ottanthullal (or Thullal) is a recite-and-dance art-form
of Kerala that is famous for its humour and social
satire.
o It was introduced in 18th century by legendary
poet Kunchan Nambiar.
• It is marked by its simplicity as opposed to more
complex dance-forms like Kathakali and Koodiyattam.
• Thullal performer is supported by a singer who repeats
the verses and is accompanied by an orchestra of
mridangam or thoppimaddalam (percussions) and
cymbals.
• It has spawned into three separate versions which
include Ottanthullal, Seethankan thullal and Parayan
thullal.
8.5.5. PADMA AWARDS PRESENTED BY
THE PRESIDENT
About • Padma Awards are one of the highest
civilian honours of India.
• Instituted in 1954, it is announced every
year on the occasion of Republic Day
122
except for brief interruption(s) during
1978 and 1979 and 1993 to 1997.
• Award does not amount to a title and
cannot be used as a suffix or prefix.
Categories • 3 Categories-
o Padma Vibhushan for exceptional
and distinguished service.
o Padma Bhushan for distinguished
service of a high order; and
o Padma Shri for distinguished
service.
Awarded • Award seeks to recognize achievements
for in all fields or disciplines where an
element of public service is involved.
o An illustrative list of the fields
includes Art, Social Work, Public
Affairs, Science & Engineering,
Trade & Industry, Medicine,
Literature & Education, Civil
Service, Sports etc.
Recommen- • They are conferred on the
dations recommendations made by Padma
/Nomi- Awards Committee, which is constituted
nations by Prime Minister every year.
o Even self-nomination can be made.
o However, Government servants
including those working with PSUs,
except doctors and scientists, are
not eligible for these Awards.
Other • Total number of awards to be given in a
relevant year (excluding posthumous awards and
information to NRI/foreigners/OCIs) should not be
more than 120.
o Award is normally not conferred
posthumously (exception for highly
deserving cases).
o A higher category of Padma award
can be conferred only where a
period of at least five years has
elapsed (exception can be made)
since conferment of earlier Padma
award.
• Awardees are presented a Sanad
(certificate) signed by the President and
a medallion. There is no cash prize.
8.5.6. PARAM VIR CHAKRA (PVC)
• On Parakram Diwas, 21 largest unmanned islands of
Andaman & Nicobar Islands were named after 21
Param Vir Chakra (PVC) awardees.
o Parakram Diwas is celebrated on occasion of the
birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
• PVC is India's highest military decoration, awarded for
displaying distinguished acts of valor during wartime.
o It was designed by Mrs. Savitri Khanolkar.
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• Cast in bronze, it carries state • About KYIG
emblem at centre on a raised o KIYG were first hosted in 2018 in New Delhi.
circle surrounded by four o Current edition (fifth) of KIYG will feature athletes
replicas of Indra's Vajra, taking part in the U-18 age category.
flanked by sword of Shivaji. ✓ Also, water sports being included for first
o Major Somnath Sharma time in history of games.
(Posthumous) was first
PVC awardee. 8.5.8. JEEVAN RAKSHA PADAK SERIES OF
AWARDS-2022
8.5.7. KEHLO INDIA YOUTH GAMES
(KYIG), 2022 • President approved conferment of Jeevan Raksha
Padak Series of Awards-2022.
• Khelo India Youth Games is being held in Bhopal, • Awards is given to a person for meritorious act of
Madhya Pradesh. human nature in saving the life of a person.
o A special mobile application has been launched to o It is given in three categories, namely Sarvottam
ensure that participating athletes, coaches, Jeevan Raksha Padak; Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak
support staff etc have access to all related and Jeevan Raksha Padak.
information. o Persons of all walks of life are eligible for these
awards.
o It can also be conferred posthumously.

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8. CULTURE
8.1. MAHARISHI DAYANAND SARASWATI
Why in News?
The Prime Minister inaugurated the year-long celebrations
commemorating the 200th birth anniversary of Maharishi Dayanand
Saraswati.
About Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati
• Born on 12th February 1824, in Tankara, Gujarat, Maharishi
Dayanand Saraswati was a social reformer.
• His views on religion, politics and society were published in his famous work, Satyarth Prakash (1875).
Philosophy of Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati
• Advocation of Dharma: He strongly advocated the concepts of Dharma which he believed to be free from any
partiality and as an embodiment of truthfulness.
o To him, Adharma was anything that did not hold true, was not just or fair and was opposed to the teachings of
the Vedas.
• Supremacy of Vedas: He believed in the Supremacy of the Vedas and dispelled the notion of any deficiency in the
scriptures of India. But he pointed out that their real meaning is forgotten.
o His book Satyarth Prakash emphasised the “return to Vedic principles” that he believed had been lost over time.
He gave the slogan ‘Go back to Vedas’.
• Non-violence: He preached respect and reverence for other human beings, supported by the Vedic notion of the
divine nature of the individual and condoned the practice of Ahimsa or non-violence.
• Prioritized Humanity: He advocated that all activities must be done for the benefit of humankind as a whole, rather
than individuals or even idols and religious symbols (as a part of “10 founding principles of Arya Samaj”).
• Views on caste system: His universalism was directly antithetical to the caste system. While he did not fully oppose
the institution of caste itself, he advocated for significant reform within it.
o Citing the Vedas, he claimed that caste is not supposed to be hereditary but rather on the basis of an individual’s
talents and disposition.
o Furthermore, he was against the practice of untouchability, which he believed was an outcome of centuries of
brahmanical domination. He advocated Vedic education for all castes.
• Women empowerment: He campaigned for the education of women as well as against regressive practices such as
child marriage.
Arya Samaj
• Genesis: He founded Arya Samaj in 1875 in Bombay to
counter social inequities prevalent during the times.
• Objective: The purpose of the Samaj was to move the Hindu
religion away from the fictitious beliefs. 'Krinvan to Vishvam
Aryam" was the motto of the Samaj, which means, "Make this
world noble".
o Arya Samaj rejected the ritualistic excesses and social
dogmas of orthodox Hinduism and promoted a united
Hindu society on the basis of Vedic teachings.
o The Samaj directs its members to condemn ritualistic
practices like idol worship, pilgrimage and bathing in holy
rivers, animal sacrifice etc.
• Role of Arya Samaj: Arya Samaj has played a crucial role in the
cultural and social awakening of the country through its
emphasis on social reforms and education.

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 o The Samaj launched programs to support widow remarriage in the 1880s, supported education of girl child and opposed
child marriage.
• Paropkarini Sabha: He also established Paropkarini Sabha under the fold of Arya Samaj to propagate Vedic traditions through
Gurukuls and publications as mediums.

Contributions of Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati

Political Contributions Contributions to Education
• Influence on nationalists: Though he was not directly involved in active politics • New Education system: He introduced a
of the period, his life and teachings had considerable influence on complete overhaul of the education
personalities like Lala Lajpat Rai, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, Madam Cama, system by introducing Anglo-Vedic
Ram Prasad Bismil, Mahadev Govind Ranade, Madan Lal Dhingra, Subhash schools to offer Indian students an
Chandra Bose and Bhagat Singh. updated curriculum teaching both the
• Idea of Swaraj: He is credited to have first used the term swaraj (self-rule) in knowledge of the Vedas along with
1875, which was later used by leaders likes Lokmanya Tilak and Mahatma contemporary English education.
Gandhi. • DAV Schools: The Dayanand Anglo
• Criticism of British: His criticism of the British from a religious point of view as Vedic (DAV) schools came into
well as providing an ancient Indian alternative was crucial to the nationalist existence in 1886 to realise his vision.
discourse of the time. The first DAV was established at Lahore.
• Push to Swadeshi: He was strongly in favour of wearing indigenous clothes • Indian alternative: He founded multiple
and setting up factories in his country. After talking with many native kings, he Vedic schools and Gurukuls, based on
inspired them for Swadeshi. principles of the Vedas, which provided
• Vision of India: His vision for India included a classless and casteless society, a an Indian alternative to missionary
united India, and an India free from foreign rule. schools.

Significance of Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati’s legacy in today’s era

• Women’s empowerment: Maharishi Dayanand’s push for education of women and opposition to ills like dowry and
child marriage act as an inspiration for the current generation.
• Modernity with cultural identity: His call to ‘Back to the Vedas’ inspires the present generation of India to lay the
path of modernity while enriching the culture and taking pride in Indian heritage.
• Assistance in natural calamities: Jeevan Prabhat Trust, an organization inspired by the ideals of Maharishi,
contributed immensely in social service and rescue operations during the 2001 earthquake in Gujarat.
• Sustainable development: Maharishi described ‘a self-realized person’ as one who gives more than he takes. This is
an inspiration for Government of India’s Mission LiFE initiative for environmental protection and sustainable living.
• Arya Samaj centres and DAV schools: Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati’s legacy carries on through the Arya Samaj
centres found across India and the values that they carry.

8.2. NEWS IN SHORTS

8.2.1. BEST TOURISM VILLAGE
COMPETITION PORTAL
• Ministry of Tourism (MoT) launched Best Tourism
Village Competition Portal
• Best tourism village competition was formulated to
develop and promote rural tourism. MoT will select the
best villages through three-level competitions—
district, state and national.
o Nationally awarded village will be featured on
different portals including government websites.
o Nine-point evaluation criteria of best villages have
been aligned with Sustainable Development
Goals.
• MoT also launched Rural Tourism Portal, Visit India
Year 2023 initiative and Global Tourism Investors’
Summit (GTIS) 2023 portal.
o First GTIS in May 2023 will showcase investible
projects and opportunities in tourism and
hospitality sector in India.
o India vision to make India one trillion USD tourism
economy by 2047 with 100 million international
visitors.
• Rural tourism has been identified as one of niche
tourism areas for development by MoT.
• Significance of Rural tourism: Promoting agri-, eco-
tourism; creating employment opportunities and
boost rural income; addressing rural-urban migration

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 challenge; preserving indigenous arts, crafts and
culture.
• Challenges in promoting to rural tourism: Poor rural
infrastructure; Lack of skill development in rural areas;
Lack of community involvement and inclusive planning;
Environmental degradation etc.
• Initiatives for rural tourism
o Rural Circuit has been identified as one of 15
thematic circuits under Swadesh Darshan
Scheme.
o National Strategy & Roadmap for Development of
Rural Tourism (NSRDRT) in India.
• Recently, Parliamentary stated that revenues
specifically at UNESCO-recognized World Heritage
Sites (WHS) are gradually rising.
o India has 32 cultural heritage sites on UNESCO
WHS list. Among these, Maharashtra’s Ajanta,
Ellora and Elephanta caves received most funding
from government.
8.2.2. KEELADI EXCAVATIONS
• Keeladi is a tiny hamlet in Sivaganga district, Tamil
Nadu. It is located, near temple city of Madurai, along
the Vaigai river.
• 2015 excavations at Keeladi prove that an urban
civilisation existed in Tamil Nadu in Sangam age.
o Sangam age in ancient Tamil Nadu was believed to
be from third century BCE to third century CE.
o Based on Keeladi findings Archaeologists have
pushed Sangam age further back.
8.2.3. SIANG UNYING FESTIVAL
• Siang Unying Festival is an important festival of Adi
community was celebrated at Boleng, Arunachal
Pradesh.
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o It is celebrated to mark beginning of Adi
community’s new year i.e., arrival of spring
season; and to strengthen the bond among
community.
• Adi constitutes a major group and inhabit lower part of
Lower Dibang Valley district especially Roing and
Dambuk areas.
o Adis are basically dependent on agriculture. Both
wet rice cultivation and shifting cultivation are
practiced.
o Padams, Milangs, Komkars, Minyongs and Pasis
collectively call themselves as Adi meaning hill
people.
8.2.4. ATTUKAL PONGALA
• The Attukal Pongala held in Attukal Temple,
Thiruvananthapuram is the largest congregation of
women for a festival in the world.
o Pongala, which means 'to boil over’, is the ritual
in which women prepare sweet payasam (a
pudding made from rice, jaggery, coconut and
plantains cooked together) and offer it to the
Goddess or ‘Bhagavathy’.
• 'The ten-day-long celebration commences in the
Malayalam month of Makaram-Kumbham (Feb -
March) on the Karthika star.
8.2.5. SANGEET NATAK AKADEMI
AWARDS (SNAA)
• President conferred various artists Sangeet Natak
Academe Fellowship and Sangeet Natak Awards for
2019.
• Sangeet Natak Akademi, apex body in field of
performing arts in country, was set up in 1953 for
preservation and promotion of intangible heritage of
India’s diverse culture.
• SNAA are national honours given by government to
performing artists, teachers, and scholars in field of
performing arts.
o Awards are given in five fields i.e., Music; Dance;
Theatre; Other
Traditional/Folk/Tribal/Dance/Music/Theatre and
Puppetry; and Overall contribution/ Scholarship to
Performing Arts.
©Vision IAS
8. CULTURE
8.1. VAIKOM SATYAGRAHA

Why in News? ‘Periyar’ E.V. Ramaswamy

As the year 2024 marks the centenary of the • About: Born in 1879, he was a rationalist Dravidian
Vaikom Satyagraha, Kerala and Tamil Nadu social reformer of the 20th century.
jointly inaugurated the centenary celebrations. • Political Contributions
o He was at the forefront of Vaikom Satyagraha
More on News and later founded the Self-Respect Movement
in 1925.
• Vaikom Award: Vaikom Award would be o He founded Dravidar Kazhagam (earlier known as the Justice
presented on E V Ramaswamy’s birth Party).
anniversary (September 17, 2023). • Ideological Contributions
• Recipients of the award: The award will be o He argued in favour of equal rights for lower-caste communities
presented to remarkable change-makers and women.
who fight for the welfare of the oppressed. o He insisted that each individual must think for herself, enter into
• Vaikom Satyagraha Memorial Museum was dialogues with each other and rationally carry out the process of
inaugurated by the Kerala Government in decision-making.
2020 at Vaikom.
Background of the movement
• Caste discrimination: The people of the oppressed
classes especially the Ezhavas, were prohibited from
walking on the four roads surrounding the Vaikom
Mahadeva temple.
o Lower castes like the Ezhavas and Pulayas were
considered polluting and various rules were in
place to distance them from upper castes.
• Leaders: T.K. Madhavan, K.P. Kesava Menon who
was the then secretary of Kerala Pradesh
Congress Committee (KPCC) and Congress
leader and educationist K. Kelappan (also
known as Kerala Gandhi) are considered
the pioneers of the Vaikom Satyagraha
movement.
o The issue of temple entry was first
raised by T.K. Madhavan in a 1917
editorial in his paper Deshabhimani.
• INC session: In 1923, at the behest of T.K.
Madhavan, at the Kakinada session of
Indian National Congress (INC), KPCC
adopted a resolution to take up anti-
untouchability as a key issue.
o Subsequently, the Congress Untouchability Committee formed by the KPCC took up the task of organising the
movement in January 1924.
Events of the Satyagraha
• Start of Satyagraha: On March 30, 1924, the Satyagrahis walked in procession towards the forbidden public roads.
• Role of George Joseph: He briefly led the agitation. He also wrote to ‘Periyar’ E.V. Ramasamy, then Tamil Nadu
Pradesh Congress Committee president, to lead the campaign.

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• Arrival of Mahatma Gandhi: Mahatma Gandhi arrived at Vaikom in 1925 and held a series of discussions with leaders
of various caste groups and met Queen Sethulakshmi Bai (Maharani Regent) of Travancore.
o Their meeting resulted in a royal proclamation by which all the public roads to Vaikom Mahadeva Temple was
opened to all castes. George Joseph
• Movement under Periyar: Under the guidance of Mahatma • About: Born in 1887, he led
Gandhi and C. Rajagopalachari, Periyar then led the movement the Vaikom Satyagraha.
till its conclusion. • Attracted to the Home
o He mobilized volunteers and garnered public support Rule Movement: He was
through his speeches. one of the leaders of three-
o He was also part of an eight-member delegation constituted member committee sent to Britain by Annie
to meet the Diwan of Travancore. Besant to sensitize the British public on self-
rule issue of India.
o He held meetings with Mahatma Gandhi, Sree Narayana
• Literary Contribution: He became the editor of
Guru, Swami Shraddhananda, and C. Rajagopalachari.
the nationalist newspaper The Independent
Outcome of the movement from Allahabad and later the editor of Young
India.
• Compromised solution: The Vaikom Satyagraha was officially
withdrawn on November 30, 1925 after consultations between • Later participation: He was the leader of the
Rowlatt Satyagraha in Madurai and joined the
Gandhi and W.H. Pitt, the then police commissioner of
Non-Cooperation Movement.
Travancore.
o A compromise was reached following the release of all prisoners and grant of access to three of the four roads
to the Vaikom temple.
• Rift between Mahatma Gandhi and Periyar: The Vaikom Satyagraha brought open the rift between Gandhiji and
Periyar. While Gandhiji saw it as Hindu reformist movement, Periyar called it a fight against caste-based atrocities.
o Periyar was not happy with the partial success attained, and he eventually quit Congress months later.
• Temple Entry Proclamation: In 1936, almost a decade after the conclusion of the Satyagraha, the historic Temple
Entry Proclamation was signed by the Maharaja of Travancore which removed the age-old ban on the entry of
marginalised castes into the temples of Travancore.
Conclusion
The Satyagraha marked the beginning of nationwide temple entry movement that continues till date. It also built a bridge
between the social justice and independence movements in India. However, the Vaikom Satyagraha was above all a
revolt against structural discrimination: the denying of morality, equality and justice in the name of caste.
Other major Temple Entry Movements
Aruvipuram movement (1888) Kalaram Temple entry movement (1930) Satyagraha in Guruvayur (1931-32)
It was Temple Entry movement launched Led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in the present- It was a satyagraha for temple entry, led by
by Sri Narayan Guru in Aruvipuram day Nashik. The movement was to have a K. Kelappan in present day Thissur. But it
village of Kerala. It was one of the first right to enter temple, but it was inclined was later abandoned on the request of
movements for equal rights to temple more towards having equal rights. Mahatma Gandhi and INC.
entry.

8.2. NEWS IN SHORTS

8.2.1. ANTIQUITIES IN INDIA • National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities
(NMMA), launched in 2007, has the mandate of
• 486 Archaeological Survey of India(ASI) antiquities preparing a database of antiquities as defined in
missing since 1947. AATA.
• Antiquities are defined under Antiquities and Art o NMMA has so ar registered 3.52 lakh antiquities.
Treasures Act, 1972 (AATA) and include items such as • UNESCO 1970 Convention (ratified by India) on Means
any of Prohibiting and Preventing Illicit Import, Export and
o Coin, sculpture, painting, epigraph or other work of Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property calls for
art or craftsmanship. measures to prohibit illicit trafficking of cultural
o Article, object or thing detached from a building or property.
cave.
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 o In India, AATA makes export of such items without
a license (from ASI) a criminal offence.
• Antiquities can be retrieved by raising requests
bilaterally or on international fora with proof of
ownership and with the help of UNESCO convention.
8.2.2. MATUA COMMUNITY
• PM has urged people to visit Matua Maha Mela in
West Bengal.
• Mela is organised on birth anniversary of Shri
Harichand Thakur (1812-1878), who was the founder
of the sect of Vaishnavite Hinduism called Matua.
o He wrote couplets in Bengali and stressed on
education and strong organisation as the primary
modes of community empowerment.
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o He wanted to establish a classless, casteless
society.
• Matuas are Namasudras, a Scheduled Caste group
considered untouchable during 19th C.E.
o Matuas migrated to India during Partition and
after the creation of Bangladesh.
8.2.3. KATTUNAYAKAN TRIBE
• Oscar award to documentary Elephant Whisperers is
a tribute to conservation legacy of the Kattunayakan
tribe.
• They are one of the 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal
Groups (PVTGs) of India.
• Found in parts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala (Nilgiris and
surrounding region).
• Language: mixture of all Dravidian languages.
• Religion practices: strongly rooted in their culture and
worship animals, birds, trees, rocks and snakes and
almost everything natural.
©Vision IAS
8. CULTURE
8.1. INDIAN KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS IN HIGHER EDUCATION
Why in news?
University Grants Commission (UGC) has
released draft guidelines for the incorporation of
the Indian knowledge systems (IKS) in higher
education for undergraduate (UG) and
postgraduate (PG) courses.
More on News
• Earlier, in 2020, IKS division under Ministry
of Education was setup to promote research
on and disseminate “Indian Knowledge
Systems”.
• Also, expertise in the Indian Knowledge
System has been added in the recently
released final version of the National Credit
Framework.
Key Features of the Guidelines
• Credit courses in IKS: UG and PG Students be
encouraged to take credit courses in IKS
amounting in all to at least five per cent of the
total mandated credits.
o At least 50% of the credits apportioned to
the IKS should be related to the major
discipline.
• Emphasis on authentic sources: IKS are to be
based on authentic sources—such as source
texts, historical accounts, inscriptions, etc.
• Focus on continuity: Continuity of the Indian
Knowledge Traditions, from ancient times up
to the relatively recent period in the design of
the course content.
• Instructions: Medium of instruction for the
IKS courses could be any of the Indian
languages, apart from English and Sanskrit.
• Translation from Sanskrit: Technical terms
and citations from the Sanskrit sources
should be given in the Devanagari script as
well as in English transliteration.
Significance of integrating Indian Knowledge
system in higher education
• Nurturing the rich legacy: For instance, India had distinguished institutions like Nalanda and Takshashila, even
before the existence of globally eminent universities like Oxford, Cambridge.
• Decolonising Indian education system: Colonial roots of education system acted as obstacle to understand the structure
and foundations of our own scientific thought. Integrating IKS will aid in preserving and disseminating IKS for further
research and societal application.
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• Applications of IKS in current times: Knowledge of Ayurveda,
construction of ships in ancient times, aircraft knowledge,
architecture of Indus Valley Cities, and political science in
ancient India- have applications in today’s world.
o This can allow to teach the world the ‘Indian way’ of doing
things.
• Multidisciplinary approach: Multidisciplinary and
crossdisciplinarity nature of IKS would enrich the students’ horizon
and prepare them better for life’s challenges.
o Solutions to many of world’s problems, like climate change,
health, need for sustainable living lie in IKS.
• Bring closer to cultural ethos: Exposure to the conventional and
contemporary concepts will bring engineers closer to their
cultural ethos, expand their intellectual horizons and enhance
their confidence.
Conclusion
It is important that IKS are taught in a critical and evidence-based manner. NEP 2020 also highlights the importance of
training teachers to ensure that IKS are taught in a scientifically rigorous manner, avoiding any promotion of unverified
beliefs or practices.

8.2. NATIONAL MISSION FOR CULTURAL MAPPING

Why in news?
Government has
identified and
documented distinctive
features of more than
one lakh villages under
the ‘Mera Gaon Meri
Dharohar‘ (My Village
My Heritage)
programme of the
National Mission for
Cultural Mapping
(NMCM).
About Mera Gaon Meri
Dharohar survey
• Aim: Seeks to
document the
cultural identity at
the village level by
involving citizens to
share what makes
their village, block, or
district unique.
o It aims to harness
the unique
cultural heritage of rural India.

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• Mechanism: Involves Common Services Centres (CSC)
Village Level Entrepreneur conducting meetings with
locals and then uploading interesting facts about their
village on to an application.
o It can be places of interest, customs and traditions,
famous personalities, festivals and beliefs, art and
culture, etc., of the village.
• Coordination: Ministry of Culture has partnered with
the CSC, under Ministry of Electronics & IT.
• Villages have been broadly divided into various
categories based on whether they are important
ecologically, developmentally, and scholastically, if they
produce a famous textile or product etc.
About National Mission for Cultural Mapping
• Initiated by the Ministry of Culture in 2017.
• Goals of the mission
o Preserving the threads of rich Indian Art and
Cultural Heritage,
o Converting vast and widespread cultural
canvas of India into an objective Cultural
Mapping,
o Design a mechanism to fulfil the aspirations of
the artist community,
o Creating strong ‘Cultural Vibrancy’ throughout
the nation.
• Institutions involved
o CSC e-Governance Services India Limited (CSC)
is given the task by Ministry of Culture to
carryout NMCM.
o Mission is being executed under the guidance
of Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts
(IGNCA).
• At broad-level, there are three important
objectives of the mission, as follows.
o National Cultural Awareness Abhiyan: Hamari
Sanskriti Hamari Pahchan Abhiyan (Our Culture Our
Identity)- It is conducted from Block to the national
level by arranging awareness programmes among
locals about cultural heritage.
o Nationwide Artist Talent Hunt/Scouting Programme:
Sanskritik Pratibha Khoj Abhiyan seeks to search hidden
as well as traditional talent.
o National Cultural Work Place (NCWP)- It is a fully
equipped cultural portal which will serve as common
interaction work place for all stake holders including
artistes, institutions, NGOs and Ministry of Culture.
Conclusion
A properly mapped, documented and designed database can be
effectively used for not only preserving the rich cultural
heritage but also providing means of livelihood and ameliorating the economic conditions of the performing artistes.
102 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS
8.3. RAJA RAVI VARMA
Why in news?
175th birth anniversary of Raja Ravi
Varma was celebrated recently.
Contributions to Indian art
• Proponent of Lithography: He was
one of the earliest proponents of
lithography in India.
o Lithography refers to art of
producing a work on a flat stone
or metal plate.
o He employed this technique to
depict popular scenes and
characters from Hindu literature.
• Union of Indian tradition and
European art: He is one of the few
painters who managed to accomplish
a beautiful union of Indian tradition
with the techniques of European
academic art.
o He was also responsible in taking
the Indian art all over the world with his impeccable technique.
• Insights to mythological stories: Through his paintings, he gave an insight of the famous mythological stories.
o The most popular paintings under this category include the ones depicting episodes from the story of Dushyanta
and Shakuntala, story of Nala and Damayanti, Lord Rama’s triumph over Varuna etc.
• Artist of the people: He was notable for making affordable copies of his paintings available to the public.
o This greatly enhanced his reach and influence. His portrayal of Hindu gods and goddesses become worship
material for many people belonging to the lower castes who were often forbidden from entering temple.

8.4. NEWS IN SHORTS

8.4.1. GLOBAL BUDDHIST SUMMIT 2023
• Global Buddhist Summit 2023 concluded with New
Delhi Declaration.
• Summit was organised by Ministry of culture, in
collaboration with Delhi-based International Buddhist
Confederation, to engage global Buddhist dhamma
leadership and scholars on matters of Buddhist and
universal concerns.
• Key highlights of New Delhi Declaration
o In the present world scenario, texts, doctrines and
philosophy of Buddha Dhamma are best guide for
inter-faith dialogue, harmony and universal
peace.
o Recognize significance of Buddhist pilgrimage as a
living heritage.
• Summit highlighted the rising role of Buddhism in
India’s soft power strategy.
o Soft power enables a change of behaviour in
others, without competition or conflict, by using
persuasion and attraction.
• Other initiatives taken towards Buddhist diplomacy
o PM makes Buddhism a regular feature of his
diplomatic visits and also emphasises shared
Buddhist heritage.
o Presence of Dalai Lama and Tibetan government-
in-exile in Dharamshala has bolstered India’s
image in global Buddhist community.
o India hosted Buddhist pilgrims from South Korea.
o Creation of specialized Buddhist tourist circuits
that cross international borders.
o Restoration of Nalanda University etc.

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8.4.2. SANCHI
• Sanchi (Madhya Pradesh) is all set to become the
country’s first solar city.
• Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi is a UNESCO world
heritage site.
• Place is related to Buddhism but not directly to life of
Buddha. It is more related to Ashoka than to Buddha.
o It comprises various Buddhist monuments dating
back to 1st and 2nd C.E, famous one being the
Sanchi Stupa.
o Sanchi stupa houses 4 gateways that showcase
Buddha’s life through intricate carvings.
o It is also home to Gupta temple, one of the earliest
example of temple architecture.
8.4.3. MANAMADURAI POTTERY
• Recently Manamadurai pottery of Sivagangai district,
Tamil Nadu got the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
• A unique type of clay is sourced from water bodies like
Nedunkulam, Nathapurakki, Sundaranadappu,
Seikalathur to make these pots.
o Main raw materials for making these pots are soil
and water.
o Vaigai River which runs through the Manamadurai
village enriches the clay used for the pottery.
8.4.4. LADAKHS WOOD CARVINGS
• Prime Minister applauds GI Tag for Ladakh's Wood
Carving, a first of its kind.
• Wood carving of Ladakh has been an aesthetically
vibrant art form in Ladakh region.
o It will boost exports, promotes goods at
international level, and will bring economic
prosperity to producers and stakeholders.
• GI sign used on products that have a specific
geographical origin and possess qualities or a
reputation that is due to that origin.
o Geographical Indications (GI) of Goods
(Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 provide
for registration and better protection of GI for 10
years.
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8.4.5. NAGRI DUBRAJ RICE
• Chhattisgarh's Nagri Dubraj rice variety got a
geographical indication tag.
o After Jeeraphool rice in 2019, Dubraj is the second
brand to get the GI tag.
• The women's self-help group “Maa Durga
Swasahayata Samuh” of Nagri in Dhamtari district has
been harvesting Dubraj and had applied for the GI tag.
8.4.6. PUSHKARALU/PUSHKARAM
FESTIVAL
• 12-day Pushkaralu festival of Telugu-speaking people
commenced in Varanasi.
• Pushkaralu refers to the worship of the 12 sacred
rivers in which the god Pushkar appears every 12
years.
o Rivers are: Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari, Krishna,
Kaveri, Bhima, Tapti, Narmada, Saraswati,
Tungbhadra, Sindhu, and Pranhita.
• The celebration happens annually, once in 12 years
along each river which are associated with a zodiac
sign.
8.4.7. HAKKI PIKKI
• Few members of the tribe are stranded in Sudan amidst
internal war.
• They are predominantly living in Shivamogga,
Davanagere and Mysuru districts of Karnataka.
• They are known for knowledge of traditional and
herbal medicine that is in high demand in African
countries.
• Hakki-Pikkis are said to be a matriarchal group.
• They speak an Indo-Aryan language. They
communicate in 'Vaagri' (mother language) at home
but speak in Kannada when conducting daily business.
• UNESCO has listed 'Vaagri' as one of the endangered
languages.
©Vision IAS
8.4.8. ABHILEKH PATAL
• PM praised “Abhilekh patal” a portal with over 1 Crore
Pages of Historical Records of National Archives.
• It is a full-featured web-portal to access National
Archives of India’s (NAI) reference media and its
digitized collections through internet.
o It is an initiative of NAI to make its Indian Archival
Records available to all.
• NAI is an Attached Office of the Ministry of Culture and
act as repository of non-current records of
Government of India.

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8. CULTURE
8.1. INSCRIPTIONS AS SOURCES OF HISTORY
Why in news?
Recently, ancient Copper plates were decoded by Pune-based Bhandarkar Oriental Research
Institute (BORI), shedding light on the ancient Sanskrit poetess Shilabhattarika.
More about news
• About the Copper plates: The copper plate charter had five copper plates said to be
dating from the reign of the Badami Chalukyan ruler Vijayaditya (696-733 CE).
o The plates were held together by a copper ring bearing a Varaha (boar) seal. The
Varaha seal is the trademark of the Badami Chalukyas.
• About Shilabhattarika: She was a Chalukyan princess, possibly the daughter of Pulakeshin II.
o According to findings, she lived in the 7th century CE rather than the current theory which has her as a wife of
the 8th-century Rashtrakuta ruler, Dhruva.
• Works of Shilabhattarika:
o They adhere to the Panchali style that calls for a balance of words with their meaning.
o The Sanskrit poet-critic Rajashekhara (who lived in the 9th-10th century CE) and was the court poet of the
Gurjara-Pratiharas, has praised Shilabhattarika for her elegant and beautiful compositions.
Other prominent ancient Indian Poetesses
• Gargi (circa 8th century BCE): She challenged the sage Yajnavalkya (writer of brihadaranyaka Upanishad) with perplexing
questions on the issue of atman (soul).
o She is also said to have written many hymns in the Rigveda.
• Maitreyi (circa 8th century BCE): She is mentioned in the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad as one of two wives of the Vedic sage
Yajnavalkya
o In the epic Mahabharata and the Gṛhyasūtras, however, Maitreyi is described as an Advaita philosopher who never
married.
o She was the expounder (a person who explains) of the Vedas.
o She discussed the nature of Atman and Brahman and their unity with Yajnavalkya.
• Key women among Nayanars (circa 7th and 8th century CE): Karaikkal Ammaiyar, Mangaiyarkkarasi, and Isaignaniyar (also
known as the mother of Sundarar.)
• Andal (circa 10th century CE): She was the only female in 12 Alvars. Andal composed two works (both in Tamil) - Tiruppavai and
Nacciyar Tirumoli.
• Akka Mahadevi (circa 12th BCE): She wrote in the Kannada language and her poems are in the vacana form, a kind of prose
poem that has a rhythmic structure in semantics and sentence patterns rather than sound.
• Atukuri Molla (circa 1440 CE): She was the daughter of a potter and writer of the first Telugu Ramayana.
Significance of Inscriptions
• Proper dating of the events: Inscriptions are extremely vital for the reconstruction of history as they give insights into
the political happenings of the concerned period.
• Information about social life: Inscriptions also give glimpses of the social life of the ages as they shed light on caste
and class structures apart from the social customs of the period.
o For example, the Brahmadesham inscription refers to the Sati committed by a Queen.
• Understanding economic history: Inscriptions give us useful insights into the economic life of their concerned periods.
• Better understanding of the language: Inscriptions represent the earliest written form of Indian languages. By
studying the vocabulary, syntax, and forms of the inscriptions linguists have been able to advance their understanding
of how languages developed in the society.
• Knowing about art forms: The early inscriptions could be writings or drawings, giving detailed information on the
happenings.
o The earliest reference to a Dancer is found in Jogimara cave belonging to 3rd century B. C. And kudimmiyanmalai
inscription of Tamil Nadu is one of the earliest inscriptions on music.
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Challenges in understanding and preservation
• Low staff in the epigraphy (study of inscriptions) branch:
Lack of experts poses a problem for research on
understanding and deciphering Inscriptions.
o The epigraphy branch functions under the
Archaeological Survey of India and is a repository of
more than 1 lakh estampages (the impression of an
inscription made on inked paper) discovered and
published ever since the epigraphy office was
established in 1886.
• Conservation holds low priority in urban planning: Due to
urbanization, many sites, along with their inscriptions,
have been destroyed.
o For instance, a historically relevant inscription near
Anaji village in Davanagere district of Karnataka which
referred to a battle between the Kadambas and the Pallavas has been lost.
• Limitations of Inscriptions as Sources of History:
o Inscriptions are not free from exaggerations and bias.
o While interpreting an inscription the interpreter must know the date at which the particular inscription was
written. There is a possibility that the inscription may have been written after the period it refers to, thus making
date estimation inaccurate.
Way forward
• Digitalisation: All the estampages should be digitalized for better preservation.
o The Union Budget proposed the Bharat Shared Repository of Inscriptions (BharatSHRI) with the aim of
digitization of 1 lakh inscriptions in the first stage.
• Institutional reform: Strengthening of the epigraphy branch with the creation of additional posts and financial
support. Innovative measures to rope in private funds can be explored along the lines of Adopt a Heritage scheme.
• Awareness and mainstreaming of archaeological conservation: This would attract more talent into the
archaeological sector and at the same time increase the importance of preservation vis-à-vis areas like urban planning,
mining etc.
• Cross-verifying with other sources of history: In order to know the authenticity of any source and the information
that they provide about any particular period they must be cross-checked with other sources of history.

8.2. JANTAR MANTAR Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II (1686-1743)

• He was the ruler of the Rajput State of Amber in India.
Why in news? • A feudatory of the Mughals, he received the title of 'Sawai' (one and a
quarter) from Emperor Aurangzeb.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has • He built the city of Jaipur. The European travellers of the time, like the
constituted a fresh expert committee for the Frenchman Louis Rousselet, and the English bishop, Heber, were greatly
conservation, preservation, restoration, and impressed by Jai Singh's unparalleled excellence in city planning.
proper functionality of the Delhi Jantar
Mantar observatory.
About Jantar Mantar
• Genesis: Maharaja Jai Singh II built 5 astronomical
observatories across northern India.
o He found the existing astronomical instruments too small
to take correct measurements, so he built these larger and
more accurate instruments.
• Observations: It was used to-
o Study time and differences between planets
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 o Observe the Movement of Planets and
Time at Different Places.
• Reason to build observatories at different
locations: Observatories at large distances
from one another were built to improve
accuracy by comparing readings from
different coordinates.
• Timeline of construction: The first to be built
was the observatory at Delhi in 1724 and the
last to be completed was the observatory at
Jaipur, in 1738.
• Present conditions: Five observatories were built across northern India (refer to image). Among them, the Mathura
observatory has ceased to exist.
o Jaipur Observatory houses the greatest number and variety of instruments. They include a number of
instruments that are not duplicated at the other sites, such as the Kappala Yantra, Rasivalaya Yantras, and
Unnatamsha Yantra etc.
Major Yantras and their functions
Yantra Structure Function
The Rama Yantra It consists of a pair of cylindrical Measuring the altitude of stars.
structures, each with a pillar at the centre.
Samrat yantra This is a large sundial. Used for calculating and keeping track of time

Jaya Prakash These are two concave hemispherical Used to find out the position of the Sun and other heavenly
structures. bodies.

Mishra Yantra It is a mixed instrument. This instrument is used to depict the time of noon in various
cities across the globe vis-à-vis the local time.

8.3. NEWS IN SHORTS

8.3.1. TUNGNATH TEMPLE
• Archaeological Survey of India has sought approval
from Centre to declare the Tungnath temple as a
monument of national importance.
• Temple, situated in Rudraprayag district, is believed to
be more than 1,000 years old and founded by Arjuna
(third of the Pandava brothers).
o At an latitude of over 12,000 feet, it is the highest
Shiva temple in the world.
o It is also referred to as ‘Tritiya Kedar’, since it is
part of the ‘Panch Kedar’ cluster of Shiva temples
(including Kedarnath, Madhmaheshwar, Tungnath,
Rudranath, Kalpnath) spread across the Garhwal
Himalayas.
8.3.2. JUNA KHATIYA SITE
• Since 2018, archaeologists have discovered 500 graves
at the site.
• Juna Khatiya is an Early Harappan burial site located in
Lakhpat Taluka of Kachchh district in Gujarat.
o Site contains biggest Early Harappan cemetery
documented in India so far.
o Other Harappan sites in Gujarat: Lothal,
Surkotada, Dholavira etc.
• Major Findings
o Burial structures are made of dressed sandstone
and majority of them are rectangular in plan
followed by oval or circular ones.
o Painting on Reserved Slip Ware jar is peculiar
feature noticed.
o Another distinctive feature includes beakers and
other smaller vessels, found within larger vessels.
8.3.3. GONGADI SHAWLS
• Telangana's woollen gongadi shawls are refashioned
into all-weather shoes for farmers by alumni of the
National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad.
• Gongadi is the traditional woolen blanket woven by
the indigenous Kuruma and Kuruba pastoralist
communities.
o Wool of the indigenous Deccani sheep (known
locally as Nalla gorrae) is used.
• The coarse woolen blanket is famous for its durability
and versatility and it does not fade but grows darker in
time.

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• It is produced organically, without using any dyes
either natural or synthetic.
8.3.4. CHAM LAMA DANCE
• It is a masked dance unique to Tibetian Buddhism
• In this Buddhist monks with colourful costumes dance
to the sounds of traditional instruments.
• The dance in itself is seen as a form of meditation and
mostly practised during festivals like Losar in Buddhist
monastries.
• Padma Sambhava (Guru Rinpoche) the founder of
Nyingmapa is believed to have started the Cham Dance
tradition.
• The dance often depicts scenes of Padmasambhava’s
life and his 8 manifestations
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8.3.5. GOVIND SWARUP LIFETIME
ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
• Professor Jayant Vishnu Narlikar gets first
Astronomical Society of India (ASI) Govind Swarup
Lifetime Achievement Award in Pune.
• Award was established in 2022, golden jubilee year of
ASI, to recognise eminent Indian astronomers.
• Professor Govind Swarup (1929-2020) was founder of
Indian radio astronomy.
o He constructed Ooty Radio Telescope (ORT) and
Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT).
o He was the founding director of National Centre
for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA), Pune.
o He was one of the strongest early proponents of
Square Kilometre Array (SKA).
©Vision IAS
8. CULTURE
8.1. CHOLA ADMINISTRATION
Why in News? About Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam
Recently, Prime Minister (PM) placed the Sengol or • Established by Namasivaya Murthy, a Saivite saint and
scholar, in 16th century, this Math had outstanding scholars
sceptre, presented by head of Thiruvaduthurai
in Tamil and Saivite philosophy.
Adheenam (monastery) to India’s first PM, in the new o Heads of Math were also patrons of Tamil scholars and
Parliament building. musicians.
More on News o Thirumoolar, Siddhar and one of the Saivaite saints and
• On August 14, 1947, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru author of Thirumanthiram, attained enlightenment
under a Peepal tree in Thiruvavaduthurai.
received the 'Sengol' as a symbol of the transfer of
• Math is on the southern banks of river Cauvery.
power to the government from the specially arrived
priests from the Thiruvaduthurai Adheenam in Tamil Nadu
• The word 'sengol' is derived from the Tamil word 'semmai', which means 'righteousness'. As the observer of 'justice',
the hand engraved Nandi sits atop it, watching with his unflinching gaze.
o The Sengol reminds the recipient that he has the “aanai” (order or decree) to rule justly and fairly.
• Sengol had an important place in Tamil culture.
o When a new king is crowned, he would be presented with a ‘sengol’ during the coronation by the high priest as a
symbol of transfer of power. About Uthiramerur Inscriptions
• In the Chola Empire, Sengol was • Dated around 920 A.D in reign of Parantaka Chola-I (907-955 AD).
considered a symbol of the path of duty, • It is an ancient Chola village once known as Chaturvedimangalam and
the path of service, and the path of the is located near Chennai in Tamil Nadu.
nation. • As per Uthiramerur inscriptions on Chola Kudavolai Election System,
o Historians suggest that handing over every village was categorised as kudumbu (ward in modern day
of a sceptre to denote the transfer of parlance) where representatives of general assembly were elected.
power has been in practice for nearly o Provide details of the way in which the sabha was organised.
2,000 years since the Sangam Age and o The sabha had separate committees to look after irrigation works,
gardens, temples, etc.
finds mention in texts such as
Purananooru, Kurunthogai,
Perumpaanatrupadai, and Kalithogai.
About Chola Administration
• King was the most powerful individual and
he had complete power, although he was
guided by a council of ministers.
o Top authorities were known as
Peruntaram, while the inferior officials
were known as Siruntaram.
• Chola empire was divided into
mandalams or provinces and these, in
turn, were divided into valanadu and
nadu. Categories of Land
o Sometimes princes of the royal family were • Vellanvagai: Land of non-Brahmana peasant proprietors
appointed governors of provinces. • Brahmadeya: Land gifted to Brahmanas
• Chola administration encouraged local self- • Shalabhoga: Land for the maintenance of a school
government in the villages all over their empire. • Devadana, tirunamattukkani: Land gifted to temples.
o There is a mention of two assemblies, Ur and the • Pallichchhandam: Land donated to Jaina institutions.
Sabha or Mahasabha, in many inscriptions
(including the Uthiramerur Inscriptions).
✓ Ur was a general assembly of village.
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 ✓ Mahasabha was a gathering of adult men in brahmana villages which were called agraharas.
o Villages enjoyed a large measure of autonomy. Affairs of villages were managed by an executive committee to
which educated persons owning property were elected.
• Cholas paid attention to irrigation. River Kaveri and other rivers were used for this purpose. Many tanks and wells
for irrigation were built.
• In addition to land tax, Chola rulers drew their income from tolls on trade, taxes on professions etc.
o Chola kings gave some rich landowners titles like muvendavelan (a velan or peasant serving three kings), araiyar
(chief), etc.
o Brahmanas often received land grants or brahmadeya.
• Cholas had an efficient army and navy. The Chola army consisted of elephant, cavalry and infantry.
o Rajaraja’s son Rajendra I developed a navy for his expeditions in Ganga valley, Sri Lanka and countries of Southeast
Asia.
Conclusion
Cholas are remembered as one of the longest ruling dynasties in the southern regions of India. It witnessed the onset of
a new culture and art flourishes like never before.
Cholas and their reign mark a remarkable period of medieval history that saw a massive cultural spurt along with a growth
in civilization and its meaning. It symbolizes not only a period of rapid advancement but also a magnificent time to look
back at and learn from.

8.2. CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI MAHARAJ

Why in News?
Celebrations marking the 350th anniversary of the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
began at the Raigad fort in Maharashtra.
About Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (1627-1680)
• Born: At the Shivneri fort near Junnar in Pune district on 19th February 1630.
• Mother: Jijabai
• Father: Shahajiraje Bhosale
• At the time of Shivaji Maharaj’s birth, most of the territory in Maharashtra was under the
possession of the Nizamshah of Ahmednagar and the Adilshah of Bijapur.
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj carved out a stable kingdom with the support of powerful
warrior families (deshmukhs).
• After Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s death, effective power in the Maratha state was
wielded by a family of Chitpavan Brahmanas who served Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s
successors as Peshwa (or principal minister). About the Coronation
Foundation of Swaraj • On 6th June 1674, Shivaji Maharaj was coroneted at
Raigad and he became Chhatrapati of the Swaraj.
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj started the work of • As a symbol of sovereignty, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
founding the Swaraj in the Pune region which is full of instituted a new era commencing from the date of his
hills and valleys and is not easily accessible. coronation. It is known as Rajyabhisheka shaka.
o The inhabitants of this region are called the • Special coins were minted- a gold coin called hon and a
Mavalas. copper coin called shivrai with the legend Shri Raja
• Objective in founding the Swaraj is clearly expressed in Shivachhatrapati inscribed on them.
his official seal- that kingdom of Shivaji will always seek the welfare of the people.
• He skillfully utilized the geographical features of Maval region for the purpose of the foundation of the Swaraj.
• He captured the forts of Murumbdev (Rajgad), Torna, Kondhana, Purandar and laid the foundation of the Swaraj.
• Swaraj comprised of large areas of Nashik, Pune, Satara, Sangli, Kolhapur, Sindhudurg, Ratnagiri, Raigad and Thane
districts of Maharashtra.

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 o It also included parts of Belgaum, Karwar and
Dharwad districts of Karnataka and Jinjee, Vellore
and their neighbouring areas in Tamil Nadu.
Administrative structure of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
• The king was at the helm of affairs. To assist the king,
there was a council of state ministers known as
ashtapradhan including:
o Peshwa (Prime Minister), Mazumdar
(accountant), Wakenavis (intelligence, posts and • Raigad is a hill fort situated in the Sahyadri Mountain
household affairs), Dabir (Foreign secretary and ranges or the Western Ghats.
ceremonies), Senapati, Nyayadhish and o Fort was known to early Europeans as the Gibraltar
Panditrao (in charge of charitable grants) etc. of the East.
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj preferred to give cash • Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj won this fort in 1656 in a
salaries to the regular soldiers, though sometimes battle with Chandrarao More, a feudal lord ruling a part
chiefs received revenue grants (saranjam). of the Western Ghats.
• Due to the fort's massive size, steep slopes and easy
o Mirasdars (those with hereditary rights in land)
communication with the mainland and the sea,
were strictly supervised.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj chose this fort as his capital in
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj supplemented his income 1662.
by levying a contribution on neighbouring Mughal • Famous structures at fort: Maha Darwaja, Hirkani Buruj,
territories. This contribution began to be called King’s Darbar etc.
Chauth (one-forth of land revenue). o The fort also overlooks an artificial lake known as the
Military Organisation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj ‘Ganga Sagar Lake’.
• Other famous forts in raigad district: Kolaba Fort,
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj maintained light cavalry Sudhagad Fort, Murud-Janjira Fort etc.
and light infantry trained in guerilla and hilly warfare.
o The Mevalis and the Hetkaris were his most excellent troopers.
• Establishment of Maratha Navy
o To protect his own territory from the Sidi's depredations, About Sidis
to protect the merchant ships and ports in order to secure • Sidis were Abyssinians who had settled at Janjira
and enhance revenue incomes derived from maritime in the 15th century.
• They got Danda-Rajpuri from Ahmednagar
trade and customs duty, he concentrated on building the
rulers and later acted independently.
Navy.
• Majority of them were brought to the Indian
o There were four hundred ships of various kinds in the Navy. subcontinent as slaves, bodyguards and soldiers
They included battleships like Gurab, Galbat and Pal. during the time of the Delhi Sultanate.
• Forts found the prime place in Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj • Sidis fought many fierce sea battles with the
scheme of military organisation. During his life, Shivaji Dutch, Portuguese, French, British, Mughals, and
constructed around 250 forts. the Marathas but remained undefeated.
o No single officer was entrusted sole charge of a fort. • Sidi prowess reached its peak under their ruler
Instead, in every fort there were-a havildar (incharge of the Surul Khan (1706-1732 CE)
keys), a sabnis (for muster-roll and government
Conflict with the Mughals
correspondences) and a sarnobat (incharge of the
• Aurangzeb appointed Shaista khan, to the
garrison).
viceroyalty of the Deccan, ordering him to invade
o He also built Sea forts that would provide protection to and annex Shivaji Maharaj’s dominions.
the navy and keep in check the Sidi of Janjira and the o In 1663, Shivaji Maharaj raided Lal Mahal and
Portuguese. successfully attacked Shaista khan..
✓ He built Suvarnadurg. In 1664 he commenced the • Later in 1664, Aurangzeb sent Jaisingh of Ambar
construction of Sindhudurg at Malvan. About the to crush growing power of Shivaji Maharaj.
same time he strengthened a fort named Vijaydurg. o Treaty of Purandar was signed between
✓ He also built a fort named Padmadurg on a small Jaisingh and Maharaj in 1665.
island in front of Rajpuri to counter the Sidi power. • In 1670, Shivaji Maharaj followed an offensive
policy against the Mughals.

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Conclusion
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is one of the great national heroes of India. His greatest achievement was to inculcate the
spirit of independence in his people. By his great deeds and achievements, he created an altogether a new order of things.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s personality and message are as relevant today as they were in the past.

8.3. GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION (GI) TAG

Why in News?
Seven new products from Uttar Pradesh get Geographical Indication (GI) Tag.

About the products

Product Details

Amroha Dholak • Musical instrument made of natural wood. Mango, jackfruit and teakwood is preferred.
• Wood from mango and sheesham trees are used to carve the multiple sized and shaped hollow
blocks, which are later fitted with animal skin, mostly goatskin, to create the instrument.

Baghpat Home • Baghpat and Meerut are famous for their exclusive handloom home furnishing product and running
Furnishings fabrics in cotton yarn, and only cotton yarn are used in the handloom weaving process.
• Products include cotton handloom bedsheets, curtains, cushions, etc known for traditional
geometric patterns.

Kalpi Handmade Paper • Kalpi is recognized for handmade paper manufacturing.

• Manufactured in an eco-friendly manner using various types of paper scraps and not wood.
o Raw materials such as waste paper and hosiery cloth are the main raw material making paper.
o Natural materials like, flower petals, grass and silk waste are added obtain the textures.

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 • Munnalal ‘Khaddari,’ a Gandhian, introduced the craft in the 1940s, although its roots in Kalpi’s
history may extend further.

Mahoba Gaura Patthar • It is a stone craft. It is a very unique and soft stone with scientific name, the ‘Pyro Flight Stone’.
Hastshilp • Gaura stone craft is made of radiant white-coloured stone that is predominantly found in this
region.
• It is cut into several pieces, which are then used for making various craft items.

Mainpuri Tarkash • Known for its fine inlay work with brass wire, strips and motifs on dark sheesham extensively for
furniture and boxes and mainly used for khadaous (wooden sandals).
• These days it is also done on center tables, stools, bangle cases, name plates' idols of 'Radha-
Krishana', other Gods and Godesses and great personalities.

Sambhal Horn craft • Handicraft art products are made from horns procured from dead animals making it environment
and animal friendly.
• They are completely hand-made.

Barabanki Handloom • The main products are Scarfs, Shawls and stoles. The cluster is famous for weaving during the
nawab's period of Lucknow.

Related News: Kari Ishad Mango

• Kari Ishad mango from Uttara Karnataka has earned GI tag.
• Kari Ishad mango is grown predominantly around Ankola. Additionally, it is grown in Karwar and to a certain extent in Kumta
of Uttara Karnataka.
o Features: unique aroma, luscious taste, high amount of pulp.
o Ishad mango has two variants — Kari Ishad, which has thin skin, more pulp and is sweeter, and Bili Ishad, which has thick
skin and has less pulp and sweetness.

8.4. NEWS IN SHORTS

8.4.1. UPANISHADS
• PM gifted first edition print of book ‘The Ten Principal
Upanishads’ written India and Iris scholar in 1937, to
president of United State.
o Book is translated from Sanskrit and considered to
be one of the best translations of Upanishads,
some of the most important Hindu religious texts.
• Upanishads, also known as Vedanta (signal the end of
total Veda) speculate the ontological connection
between humanity and cosmos.
o Dated to roughly 800-500 BC, Upanishads
discussed about relationship between atman,
unchanging self of an individual, and brahman,
ultimate reality in universe.
o Ten main (or principal) Upanishads: Esha, Kena,
Katha, Prashna, Mundaka, Mandukya, Taittiriya,
Aitareya, Chandogya Brihadaranyaka.
8.4.2. RAJA PARBA
• Raja Parba or Mithuna Sankranti is a 3-day festival
celebrated in Odisha.
• The term Raja has come from Rajaswala (meaning a
menstruating woman).
• It became popular during the medieval period as an
agricultural holiday remarking the worship of Bhudevi,
who is the wife of Lord Jagannath.
o A silver idol of Bhudevi is still found in Puri Temple
aside from Lord Jagannatha.
• It celebrates womanhood. It is believed that the
mother Goddess Earth undergoes menstruation during
the first three days and prepares herself for future
agricultural activities with the arrival of monsoon.
o The second day signifies the beginning of the solar
month of Mithuna from, which the season of rains
starts. It welcomes the agricultural year in Odisha.
o The fourth day is called as Vasumati gadhua or
ceremonial bath of Bhudevi.
• During the three days, women are given a break from
household work and time to play indoor games. Girls
adorn traditional saree and apply alatha on foot. All
people abstain from walking barefoot on the earth.
8.4.3. AMBUBACHI MELA
• Ambubachi Mela, four day annual fair, begun at
Kamakhya temple located atop the Nilachal hills in
Guwahati, Assam.

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 o It is celebrated to mark the annual menstruation
of Goddess Kamakhya (reigning deity).
o It also marks as an occasion to promote awareness
about menstrual hygiene.
• Kamakhya Temple is one of the 52 Shakti peeths or
Seat of Shakti followers. It is also considered as one of
the prime seats of Tantric rituals.

8.4.4. JOHA RICE

• Scientists explored nutraceutical properties of Joha
rice (a GI Tag rice from Assam) and detected two
unsaturated fatty acids: linoleic acid (omega-6) and 8.4.6. HOMO NALEDI
linolenic (omega-3) acid.
o Joha rice has a more balanced ratio of omega-6 to • New evidence suggests that Homo naledi, an extinct
omega-3 in comparison to widely consumed non- human species, may have buried their dead and
scented variety. carved meaningful symbols in a cave.
• Joha is a short-grain winter paddy known for its o The burials are older than any known Homo
significant aroma and taste. sapiens burials by at least 100,000 years.
o Joha varieties are mostly short or medium grained • Features of Homo naledi
and have very low yield potential. o They walked fully upright and had hands that were
• It is effective in lowering blood glucose and preventing similar to ours.
diabetes onset. o Shoulders were built for climbing and teeth were
o It is also rich in several antioxidants, flavonoids, shaped like that of older primates.
and phenolics. o Brain size was just one-third of that of modern
humans.
8.4.5. MENHIRS • Humankind’s earliest ancestors: Ardipithicines,
Australopithecines, Homo habilis, Homo ergaster/
• Heritage enthusiasts of Telangana seek UNESCO tag for erectus, Homo neanderthalensis, Denisovans.
Menhirs at Mudumal village in Telangana.
o Menhirs are upright stones from the Megalithic 8.4.7. PRESS INFORMATION BUREAU
period. Generally, they are erected above a burial (PIB)
site or near a burial site as a memorial.
o According to archaeologists, the menhirs have • Press Information Bureau (PIB) marked its centennial
been designed in a manner such that they align anniversary.
with the sun on particular days, like Equinoxes and
solstices. Thus, menhirs enabled the early agrarian
people to chart the movement of the Sun. The
knowledge of Suns’ movement would have helped
them understand seasons.
o They were also used as clocks and calendars. They
were used to measure time, identify specific days,
months and seasons from the shadows.
• About Menhirs, in Mudumal
o Mudumal village is home to one of South-East
Asia’s largest cluster of Menhirs. They are as old
as 3,500 years.
o Locally they are called ‘Niluvu rallu’- meaning
standing rocks.
o These are accompanied by nearly 3,000 alignment
stones related to the funerary rights of the ancient
community. These stones are arranged in lines or
rows in a 20-25 feet gap.

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8.4.8. JATAN: VIRTUAL MUSEUM
BUILDER
• JATAN: Virtual Museum Builder, is a digital collection
management system for Indian museums.
• It is a client server application with features such as
image cropping, watermarking, unique numbering,
management of digital objects with multimedia
representations.
• It has been designed and developed by Human Centres
Design and Computing Group, Centre for Development
of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Pune.
o C-DAC is the premier R&D organization of the
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
(MeitY) for carrying out R&D in IT, Electronics and
associated areas.
o It was established in 1988.
• It is part of Central government’s plan to complete 3D
digitisation of all museums under its administrative
control by the year end for better conservation of
artefacts.
o Ministry of Culture has 10 museums under its
ambit.
o Also, Archaeological Survey of India also has site
museums at 44 locations spread throughout the
country in proximity to important archaeological
sites
• Partners: Memorandum of Understanding has been
signed between the Ministry of Electronics and
Information Technology and Ministry of Culture.
8.4.9. GANDHI PEACE PRIZE 2021
• Gandhi Peace Prize 2021 will be conferred on Gita
Press, Gorakhpur.
• Annual Gandhi Peace Prize was instituted in 1995 on
occasion of 125th birth anniversary of Mahatma
Gandhi.
o Award is open to all persons regardless of
nationality, race, language, caste, creed or gender.
o Award carries a cash prize of ₹1 crore, a citation, a
plaque and an exquisite traditional
handicraft/handloom item.
o Past awardees include organisations such as ISRO
and Ramakrishna Mission.
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8.4.10. SAHITYA AKADEMI AWARD
• Ministry of Culture intends to change nomination
process for Sahitya Akademi Award.
• It is a literary honour, conferred annually on writers of
most outstanding books of literary merit published in
any of the major Indian languages.
o Besides 22 languages enumerated in Constitution,
English and Rajasthani language are also
recognised.
o Award includes a casket containing an engraved
copper-plaque, a shawl and an amount of Rs.
1,00,000/-.
• Sahitya Akademi functions as an autonomous
organisation. It is registered as a society under
Societies Registration Act, 1860.
8.4.11. DIAMOND LEAGUE
• Indian long jumper Murali Sreeshankar secured a third
place in Paris Diamond League.
• Diamond League is an annual series of top-tier track
and field competitions organised by World Athletics,
international governing body for athletics.
o It was started in 2010 as a replacement for
previous IAAF Golden League and IAAF World
Athletics Final events.
• Number of meets in a particular season of Diamond
League is generally 14. The meets are held in different
cities across the globe.
8.4.12. ICC WORLD TEST CHAMPIONSHIP
(WTC)
• Australia beats India to win the WTC title.
• WTC comprises the top nine Test teams, all of whom
played six series each – three at home and three away.
o Top two teams competed in WTC Final,
• Rather than each series being worth the same number
of points like in the first edition, each match was
worth the same number of points this time.
• Teams qualified on a percentage of points won basis
to standardise the imbalance in the number of matches
played by terms.
©Vision IAS
8. CULTURE
8.1. MIHIR BHOJA
Why in the news?
Recently a statute of Raja Mihir Bhoja was
unveiled in Kaithal, Haryana.
About Mihir Bhoja
• A prominent 9th-century ruler from
Gurjar – Pratihara dynasty.
• He succeeded his father Rambhadra and
ascended to the throne in 836 CE.
• He adopted the title of Adivaraha
(devotee of Lord Vishnu). Also, some of
the coins from his era feature the term
Adivaraha.
• Arab merchant Sulaiman described him as
one of the greatest Gurjara – Pratihara
emperors.
• He was also a great patron of art and
literature. Poet Rajsekhara adorned his
court.
Political consolidation by Mihir Bhoja
• He reorganized and consolidated the
Pratihara empire through conquests and
diplomacy.
o Various inscriptions at Varaha,
Daulatpur, Kahala, Pahewa, etc.,
indicate his control over Malwa,
Rajputana, Madhyadesh.
o Kalhana’s Rajatrangini mentions the expanse of his empire to Kashmir in the north.
• Tripartite struggle:
o He was also involved in tripartite struggle for Kannauj with Palas in the East and Rashtrakutas in the Deccan.
o He fought wars with Pala king Devapala. Later, according to Gwalior prashasti, Bhoja defeated the son of
Devapala.
o During his reign, Amoghavarsa and Krishna II were Rashtrakuta kings ruling over Kannauj. Bhoja captured Kannauj
from Rashtrakutas and extended his empire up to the river Narmada.

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8.2. SRI ALLURI SITARAMA RAJU
Why in the news?
Recently, the yearlong celebration of the 125th Birth Anniversary of Shri Alluri Sitarama Raju
and 100 years of the Rampa Rebellion concluded in Hyderabad.
Early Childhood
• Birth Place: Born on 04 July 1897, at Mogallu near Bhimavaram, Andhra Pradesh.
• By the age of 18, he renounced all worldly pleasures and became a Sanyasi.
Contribution in India’s Independence
• Influenced by Mahatma Gandhi during Non-Cooperation Movement (NCM):
o He inspired the tribals to seek justice in the local panchayat courts and boycott the
colonial courts.
o He persuaded people to wear khadi and give up drinking.

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• Rampa Rebellion (1922-1924)
o It is also known as the Manyam (which means
forest area) Rebellion.
✓ He is also referred as “Manyam Veerudu”
(Hero of the Jungles) by the local people.
o In August 1922, Shri Alluri Sitarama Raju launched
movement against British tyranny rule.
✓ He began to organise adivasis against
oppressive Madras Forest Act, 1882.
✓ Organised militant guerrilla movement
spread in the early 1920s
✓ He soon realised that the traditional
weaponry would be of no use against the
heavily armed the British forces.
✓ To get modern weapons, he found the best
way to snatch them from the enemy, and for
that he launched attacks on police stations.
✓ The first of such attacks was made on
Chintapalli police station in Visakhapatnam.
o After a relentless chase by British forces, Shri Alluri
Sitarama Raju was caught and martyred on May 7,
1924.
o Rampa Rebellion later inspired the tribals of Orissa and they started no rent Struggle along with violating forest
laws.
• He was also a member of a Calcutta Secret Society where he learnt to make bombs.
Factors behind Rampa Rebellion
• Alienation of tribal population from Rampa and Gudem
Hills: By passing the Madras Forest Act, of 1882, Agency
restricted the free movement and collection Minor Forest
Produce by the tribal communities.
• Banning traditional Podu agricultural system (slash-and-
burn shifting cultivation).
• Exploitation of Tribals:
o Vetti worker (free customary or unpaid Labours): The
tribal folk refused to work as vetti labour in the
construction of roads and railway lines in the hilly
region.
o Gothi Labour (A form of debt bondage): Gothi labours
were employed by private forest contractors in the
region without proper wage.
o System of Coolie Labour: Labours were paid at local
rate for their work but remain unpaid for certain type
of forest work.
• Muttadars (Village Headman) power curtailed: Muttadars
in the traditional socio-economic framework of the Rampa
region had been actual rulers in their capacity.
o British rule altered this power structure of tribal
community which antagonised the muttadars.

8.3. BASTILLE DAY AND FRENCH REVOLUTION (1789-1815)

Why in the news?
Recently Prime Minister of India attended Bastille Day Parade as a Guest of
Honour in France.
About Bastille Day
• July 14 marks the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille prison on
14th July 1789, which marks the beginning of the French Revolution (FR).
• Events of the day:
o King and Assembly were suspicious of each other. The King
commanded the troops to move into the city.
o Rumours spread that king would soon order the army to open fire
upon the citizens.
o A group of several hundred people stormed the fortress prison, the
Bastille, where they hoped to find hoarded ammunition. (Bastille
was a 14th-century fortress prison in Paris that was hated by all
because it stood for the despotic power of the king.)
o The Commander of the Bastille was killed and the prisoners were
released by the mob.
• This was the beginning of a chain of events in FR which was as much a struggle of weapons as of ideas.
Reasons for French Revolution
• No representation in administration: People had no participation in it. Though France had a representative institution
called the Estates General, its session had not been held since 1614.

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• French Society during the late 18th century (Unequal distribution of power): Diverse and disintegrated society with
a retrogressive system of feudalism.
o The society of estates was part of the feudal system that dated back to the middle ages.
o Peasants made up about 90% of
the population. However, only a
small number of them owned
the land they cultivated.
o Members of the first two
estates, that is, the clergy and
the nobility, enjoyed certain
privileges by birth.
• Economic Condition of France:
Constant wars led to deplorable
conditions and France reached the
brink of bankruptcy.
• Intellectual Enlightenment:
Montesquieu, Voltaire, Rousseau
etc. were some of the scholars who
inspired people to think
independently. They raised several
questions against religious,
economic, social and political
institutions basing them on their
special rights and injustice.
• Immediate Cause of Revolution:
Improvident policy of King Louis XVI,
economic crisis pitched the proletariat into misery, growing middle class.
Impact of the French Revolution
Impact on France Worldwide Permanent Impact
• End of Autocratic and Despotic Bourbon Dynasty: Revolution uprooted • Revolution awakened the spirit of
them and after the new constitution of 1791, no king claimed divine rights. nationalism: It paved the way for
• Impact on the social system: unification of Italy & Germany. This spirit
o End of Privileged Class: Revolution started a new social organisation. soon infused the people in Belgium, Serbia,
o End of Feudalism: Feudal lords occupied all key posts in administration, Greece, and Hungary.
military, and church. This drastically reduced post-revolution. • Declaration of Human Rights: It kicked a
o Improvement in Conditions of Middle and Lower Classes: Forced number of movements where people
labour was banned. Land was allotted to peasants and several taxes demanded not only political freedom but
were revoked. also the right to property and freedom of
• Decline in Supremacy of Church: Religious freedom was granted to all expression.
sects. Revolutionaries laid more emphasis on intellect and reason. • Popularized democratic values: Ideologies
• Declaration of Human Rights: Declaration granted personal freedom as of liberty, equality and fraternity inspired
well as freedom of expression and speech. movements in various countries.
• Negative Effects of the Revolution: o Tipu Sultan and Rammohan Roy are
o Many innocent people were guillotined during the Reign of Terror, examples of individuals who responded
which followed the Revolution. to the ideas coming from revolutionary
o Disturbance, anarchy and disorder continued in France for a long time. France.

Conclusion
French Revolution was not a local occurrence, it initiated principles which became the guiding force of several events in
history in the ensuing ages. Liberty, Equality and Fraternity are eternal contributions of the French Revolution.

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8.4. NEWS IN SHORTS
8.4.1. ANUBHAV MANTAPA
• International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre
(IECC) at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, has been named
‘Bharat Mandapam’.
• Bharat Mandapam – derives its root from Lord
Basaveshwara’s (12th century) idea of Anubhav
Mantapa.
• Anubhava Mantapa was one of the earliest Parliament
in history, where Sharanas (poets and socio-spiritual
reformers) deliberated for reforms in various spheres.
o Prabhudeva, a great Yogi, was the President, and
Lord Basaveshwara acted as PM.
o Members were not elected by the people but
were picked up or nominated by higher
authorities of Mantapa.
8.4.2. PORPANAIKOTTAI SITE
• A gold stud, a bone point and a carnelian bead
belonging to Sangam Age have been excavated at the
Porpanaikottai site in the Pudukottai district of Tamil
Nadu.
o Sangam Age refers to the period of ancient Tamil
Nadu, Kerala, from c. 6th century BCE to c. 3rd
century CE.
• The Excavation site indicated a burial site, and the fort
area showed signs of water bodies inside the site.
• The discovery of a carnelian bead (generally found in
the Northern part of India) Indicated a trade within the
country.
• The discovery of bone point tools indicated that a
Porpanaikottai was a site of the weaving industry.
8.4.3. TANKAI SHIPBUILDING METHOD
• Ministry of Culture and Indian Navy to launch a project
to revive the 2000-year-old technique of shipbuilding
known as the Tankai method.
• In this method, the ship is constructed by stitching
wooden planks together rather than using nails.
• This method offered flexibility and durability, making
them less susceptible to damage from shoals and
sandbars.
• The arrival of European ships led to a shift in
shipbuilding techniques.
8.4.4. OL CHIKI SCRIPT
• Prime Minister wished the people of the Santhal tribe
on the occasion of Hul diwas using the Ol Chiki Script of
the Santhali language.
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o 92nd Constitutional Amendment Act added Santali
to Schedule VIII to the Constitution of India, which
lists the official languages of India, along with
Bodo, Dogri and Maithili languages.
• Ol Chiki script was created in 1925 by Raghunath
Murmu.
o Santhali is a Munda language spoken mainly in
Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, and also in
Bangladesh, eastern Nepal and Bhutan.
o There are about 7.3 million speakers of Santhali in
India, according to the 2011 census.
• June 30 is celebrated as Hul (revolution) Diwas,
marking the beginning of the Santhal rebellion 1885.
• Santhal rebellion (1855-56) was one of the first
expressions of revolt against the British colonial
regime.
• It is attributed to the Permanent Settlement Act of
1790 that led to their displacement from Birbhum and
Manbhum regions (present-day Bengal) and
subsequent exploitation by Zamindars, police and the
British.
o The rebellion occurred in the Damin-i-Koh region
in the Rajmahal Hills of Jharkhand.
o The two brothers headed it- Sidhu and Kanhu
Murmu.
8.4.5. KUI LANGUAGE
• Odisha Cabinet has proposed including the Kui
language in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution.
• Kui Language belongs to the Dravidian Family of
languages and is spoken mainly by people of the
Kondh/ Kandha Tribe, the largest tribe of Odisha.
o It uses Odia Script, and Khondi, Gumsai are its
dialects.
• Schedule 8 of the Indian Constitution:
o It currently enlists the Official language of the
Country and consists of 22 languages.
o Fourteen languages were initially listed in the
Constitution, and the rest were added over time.
o Sindhi was introduced in 1967, Konkani, Manipuri,
and Nepali in 1992, and Santali, Dogri, Maithili, and
Bodo by the 92nd Amendment Act 2003.
• Inclusion of New Language:
o Currently, no fixed criteria exist for a language to
be considered for inclusion in the Eighth
Schedule.
o Though two committees under Pahwa (1996) and
Sitakant Mohapatra (2003) were set up to evolve
fixed criteria, the objective was not achieved.
©Vision IAS
 8.4.6. ZO PEOPLE
• Zo people include:
o All tribes of the Chin-Kuki-Mizo ethnic group
spread across Myanmar, India, and Bangladesh.
o Many sub-tribes and clans include the Chin, Kuki,
Mizo, Lushei, Zomi, Paitei, Hmar, Ralte, Pawi, Lai,
Mara, Gangte, Thadou, etc.
• Tribes are believed to have migrated from China
through Tibet to settle in Myanmar.
• They speak a group of Tibeto-Burman languages.

8.4.7. KER PUJA

• It is a festival celebrated in Tripura two weeks after
Kharchi Puja and honours Ker, a guardian god.
• During the festival, entrances to Agartala are closed to
create a protected area, and people are not allowed
to light fires, dance, sing or even wear shoes.
• It is also held in a few other northeastern states and in
the Chittagong Hill Tracts in Bangladesh.

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8. CULTURE
8.2. SRI AUROBINDO GHOSH
Why in the news?
Recently, the year-long celebration of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sri Aurobindo concluded
at Auroville, Puducherry.
About Sri Aurobindo
• 20th-century Bengali poet, philosopher, spiritual leader and revolutionary freedom fighter.
• Early Life:
o Born on 15 August 1872 in Calcutta district (now Kolkata), West Bengal.
o Education began in Christian convent school in Darjeeling.
o At the age of 7 years, he was taken to England along with his brothers.
o Studied at St. Paul’s School London (1884) and King’s College in Cambridge in 1890.
o In 1893, Aurobindo returned to India and joined the Baroda state, first as a bureaucrat and then as a professor
of French at Baroda College.
• Participation in the National Movement
o Pioneer of the Indian extremist movement and helped in establishing Anushilan Samiti in 1902.
o Shri Aurobindo left his job and plunged into active politics after the partition of Bengal in 1905.
o During the Surat session of INC in 1907, known for the Surat Split, he joined the extremist group led by Bal
Gangadhar Tilak against the moderates.
o Shri Aurobindo advocated passive resistance and not violence. He, however, did not opine that to attain
freedom, it is wrong to resort to violence.
o In May 1908, Aurobindo was arrested in connection with the Alipore Conspiracy Case.
• Literary Contribution:
o 'New Lamps for Old', articles written by him in InduPrakash from 1893-94, criticising moderate politics of
Congress.
o In March 1906, in a Bengali newspaper, Yugantar, he preached open revolt and complete independence.
o Edited Bande Mataram newspapers founded by Bipin Chandra Pal.
o After his release in 1909, Aurobindo started two weeklies, namely Karmayogin in English and Dharma in Bengali.
o In 1914, he started publishing a philosophical magazine, Arya.
o Other Books include a compilation of poems, letters and essays such as Essays on the Gita (1922), Collected
Poems and Plays (1942), The Synthesis of Yoga (1948), The Human Cycle (1949), The Ideal of Human Unity
(1949), Savitri: A Legend and a Symbol (1950), etc.
• Spiritual Journey:
o Played an active role in the Indian Freedom Movement till 1910, after which he became a spiritual reformer.
o His important works like the Life Divine, Essays on Geeta, The Synthesis of Yoga, and the epic poem 'Savitri'
were written during this period.
o He developed a kind of Yoga called Integral Yoga.
✓ Through Integral Yoga, he believed human beings can achieve true self-realisation.
✓ Internal Yoga aims at spiritual realisation that not only liberates man's consciousness but also transforms his
nature.
o He founded a community of spiritual seekers, which took shape as the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in 1926
with Mirra Alfassa.
✓ Mirra Alfassa founded the Auroville, i.e., the city of dawn, a universal town for a peaceful, progressive, and
harmonious existence.
• Aurobindo’s life philosophy
o It is a synthesis of idealism, realism, naturalism, and pragmatism.
o According to him, Jnana (knowledge), Bhakti (devotion), and Karma (work ethics) can lead man to the divine
path.

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 ✓ But the synthesis of spirituality, creativity, and intellectuality is essential for a sound personality.
o Sri Aurobindo did not believe in any man-made divisions and used to consider social inequalities as a major
obstacle to raise national consciousness.
o Influenced by the teaching of Sri Ramanujacharya, who argued for the inclusion of outcastes into the fold of
Hinduism.
Principle of Education
Aurobindo was a distinguished philosopher and educationist who formulated rich educational thoughts to enrich our educational
system comprehensively. The following thoughts are relevant to today
• Child–centric education with full freedom for the child to express her latent potential.
• Introduction of moral and religious education as an integral part of general education and by practice of religious life.
• Training of the senses as senses are the gateways of knowledge.
• International education based on universal love, sympathy, fellow feeling, peace &international understanding
• Emphasis on Psychological methods i.e. self – learning, practical experiences, learning by doing, teaching according to age,
abilities & aptitude of the child.
Concept of Nation and Theory of Spiritual Nationalism
• He believed that the nation is not just a piece of land or a mass of human beings.
• The 'nation' is a mighty 'shakti' composed of all the shaktis of all the millions of units that make up the nation. It is thus a living
entity.
• Nationalism in his opinion is not merely a political movement
• In his opinion, nationalism is akin to religion. It is a faith and a creed that one has to live.
• Nationalism is immortal because it is not a creation of human beings but is created by God.
• If one wants to be a nationalist, one must work for his nation.

8.3. CHESS WORLD CUP 2023

Why in the news?
Indian Grandmaster Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa secured a second-place finish in the final of the International Chess
Federation (FIDE) World Cup 2023.

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About FIDE World Cup
• FIDE World Cup 2023: The World Cup is a major chess event organised by FIDE, the international governing body.
o Players who finish 1st, 2nd and 3rd in the FIDE World Cup qualify to take part in FIDE Candidates Tournament 2024.
• FIDE Candidates Tournament 2024: This tournament is between 8 players, selected through different criteria and
tournaments in the following manner-
o 3 spots – FIDE World Cup 2023, three players who finish 1st, 2nd (Praggnanandhaa) and 3rd.
o 2 spots – FIDE Grand Swiss Tournament 2023, two players who finish 1st and 2nd.
o 1 spot – FIDE World Championship Match 2023, Runner-up.
o 1 spot – High-Level International Tournaments (HIT), the player with the best results during one year (2023).
o 1 spot – The highest-rated player by
standard rating in the January 2024 rating
list provided that the player has played at
least four standard-eligible tournaments.
• FIDE World Chess Championship: It is held
between the Reigning Champion and the
Winner of the Candidates Tournament (the
Challenger). This match determines the actual
World Chess Champion.
o Ding Liren (China) is the current Champion,
and he will be challenged by the Winner of
the Candidates Tournament to be held in
2024.
About Chess Titles
• Based on ratings earned by players, FIDE
awards the most prestigious chess titles. Once
earned, these titles are held for life.
o Chess titles indicate the strength of the
best players.
o Chess titles are also awarded by some
national federations.
• Viswanathan Anand is a five-time world
champion and India’s first grandmaster.
• India has around 80 grandmasters now. Two of
them are women, including Koneru Humpy and
Harika Dronavalli.
Conclusion
With younger players like Rameshbabu
Praggnanandhaa D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, and
Nihal Sarin making a mark, it also signals a
generational shift in the game itself, and that shift is
likely to favour India heavily.

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8.4. NEWS IN SHORTS
8.4.1. GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION (GI) named Hathuras, makes these
products.
TAGS Matti Banana • Matti Banana is commonly known
• Recently, various products were given a Geographical (Kanyakumari, Tamil as ‘Baby Banana’ and is known for
Nadu) its distinct fragrance and honey-
Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications
like taste
Registry in Chennai.
• Its low total soluble solids
GI Tag Product Description content (TSSC) recommends it as
Udaipur Koftgari • The art of decorating arms and a baby food.
Metal Craft weaponry is known as Koftgiri. • Unlike typical banana bunches
(Rajasthan) • It is the art of ornamenting that grow straight, the Matti’s
surfaces by inlaying light metal on fingers exhibit a distinct wind-
a dark one using gold or silver blown appearance.
wires.
Bikaner Kashidakari • It involves fine stitching and 8.4.2. MYLARA CULT
Craft (Rajasthan) mirrorwork on cotton, silk, or
• Recently discovered sculptures in Karnataka has
velvet, primarily for objects
related to weddings and gift proved the existence of the cult in the state
items. o The members of the Cult worship, (MyLara)
o The mirrors are believed to Mailara who is a folk deity also identified as a
ward off the 'evil eye' with manifestation of Lord Shiva.
their reflective surfaces. o The deity is often depicted seated, standing or on
• The craft was traditionally done a horse and he is generally seen holding a sword,
by the Meghwal community in trisula (trident), a damaru (hour-glass shaped
Bikaner and nearby districts. drum) and a bowl.
Jodhpur Bandhej • It is the Rajasthani art of tying and o The cult is prevalent in the states of Karnataka,
Craft (Rajasthan) dyeing.
Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
• The fabrics used for Bandhej are
muslin, silk and voile. Cotton
thread is used for tying the fabric.
Bikaner Usta Kala • It is also known as gold nakashi or
Craft (Rajasthan) gold manauti work.
• It was done on walls, ceilings,
glass, wood, marble and artefacts
made of camel leather.
• The most used motifs were foliage,
animals and birds.
• The art form is named after the
Ustas, or master craftsmen, who
developed it.
Mankurad Mango • Named by Portuguese as
(Goa) malcorada (means ‘poor
coloured).
• Mankurad has a uniform yellow
colour, less fibre and balanced
sugar.
Goan Bebinca (Goa) • It is a traditional Indo-Portuguese
pudding.
• It is also referred to as the queen
of Goan desserts.
Jalesar Metal Craft • It is known for decorative metal
(Uttar Pradesh) crafts and brassware (like anklets,
bells)
• The Thatheras community, which
resides in a mohalla (locality)

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8.4.3. SEETHAKALI FOLK ART
• Seethakali is a centuries-old folk art form that is
believed to have originated at Perinad in Kollam
district Kerala.
• It is performed as part of the harvest festival Onam.
• It is based on certain episodes taken from the epic
Ramayana and portrays characters such as Rama,
Seetha, Ravana and Hanuman.
o It’s a blend of songs, storytelling and fast
movements.
o Props and instruments used during performances
are all made of natural materials like bamboo and
palm leaves.
o Vibrant coloured costumes and makeup is used.
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8.4.4. NATIONAL FILM AWARDS, 2023
• The winners of the 69th National Film Awards were
announced recently.
• About the Award
o It was first awarded in 1954, initially they were
called the ‘State Awards’ given for regional
languages.
o It aims at encouraging the production of films of
aesthetic and technical excellence and social
relevance.
o Presented by The President of India.
o Categories: – Features, Non-Features, and Best
Writing on Cinema.
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8. CULTURE
8.1. NATARAJA STATUE
Why in the news?
The world's tallest Nataraja statue was installed at Bharat
Mandapam, the venue of the G20 summit in Delhi.
About the statue
• It is a ~27-foot-tall statue weighing ~18 tonnes.
• It was made by sculptor Radhakrishnan Sthapathy in
Thanjavur District of Tamil Nadu.
• The statue was built in Ashtadhatu (8 metals) using the
traditional lost wax casting method.
o Ashtadhatu also called octo-alloy, is an alloy comprising
the eight metals of gold, silver, copper, lead, zinc, tin,
iron, and mercury.
About Nataraja Statue
• Nataraja is regarded as the 'Lord of Dance' and his dance represents the cyclical creation and destruction of the
universe.
o The Cholas considered Lord Shiva as Nataraj as their family deity.
• The dance is a manifestation of panchkrityas or the five activities of Shiva that are creation, preservation, destruction,
veiling and grace.

• Evolution of Nataraja Sculpture

o Evidence shows that bronze representations of Shiva first appeared in the Pallava period between the 7th century
CE and mid-9th century CE.
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 o Its present, world-famous form evolved under the patronage of the Chola dynasty.
o The later Chola craftsmen began to produce figures that were flared and dynamic as opposed to the Pallava
sculptures that were close-set and linear.
o The distinguished patron during the 10th century was the widowed Chola queen, Sembiyan Maha Devi.
• Temples associated:
o A bejewelled image of Nataraja is located at the Thillai Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram (Tamil Nadu).
✓ Parantaka I (ruler of the Chola dynasty) is associated with the temple. He is said to have provided the Vimana
of the Nataraja temple at Chidambaram with a golden roof.
✓ Temple is located at the Center Point of world 's Magnetic Equator.
o Nataraja idols/sculptures can also be found at the Uma Maheswarar Temple in Konerirajapuram, and the
Brihadeeswara Temple, in Thanjavur.
o Many Shiva temples in southern India have a separate Natana Sabha where the image of Nataraja would have
been placed.
Art and architecture under Chola dynasty
Sculptures
• The Chola period is well known for its metal sculptures.
• Chola bronze sculptures were made using the cire perdue or lost-wax casting technique that is still practiced today in India
and elsewhere.
o It is a method of metal casting in which molten metal is poured into a clay mold that has been created by means of a
wax model.
o Once the mold is made, the wax model is melted and drained away.
• The sculptures featured holes at the bottom.
Paintings
• The art of paintings also flourished and was painted with much realism.
• There were paintings on the themes of Puranas painted on the inner walls of the Raja Rajeswara Temple and Gangaikonda
Cholapuram Temple.
• A painting believed to be that of Marco Polo is in the Brihadeeswarar Temple.
Music and dance
• Instruments such as kudamula, veena, and flute were used, and the devadasis were expert musicians and singers.
• The classical dance form of Bharatnatyam is believed to have flourished under Chola patronage.
Temples
• Chola temples can be categorized in two
groups –
o Early temples that were influenced by
Pallava architecture.
o Later temples had Chalukya influence.
• Architectural style: Dravidian
• Key Features of the Chola temples
o Temples were surrounded by a high
boundary wall.
o Consists of grabhgriha (inner sanctum)
and antarala (vestibule).
o Temples were huge and large with
Vimanas (structure over inner sanctum)
or Gopuras (entrance tower)
dominating the landscape.
o The raw materials used are blocks of
gneiss and granite.
o Important examples:
✓ Early group- Vijayalaya temple.
✓ Later group- Brihadishwar temple of Thanjavur and the Brihadishwar temple of Gangaikond cholpuram.

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8.2. KONARK SUN TEMPLE
Why in the news?
The mural of the iconic Konark Sun
Temple wheel was showcased to
the World Leaders at the G20
Summit.
About Konark Sun Temple
• Konark Sun Temple is a
UNESCO World Heritage Site
and is also known as Black
Pagoda, Arka Kshetra and
Padma Kshetra.
• The Sun Temple and Konark
Wheel were built during the
13th century under the reign
of Eastern Ganga King
Narasimhadeva-I.
o Sun temples are temples
dedicated to the worship of
the Sun God and these are
designed to highlight the
celestial movement of the
Sun.
o Materials used for building the temple include Chlorite, Laterite and Khondalite rocks.
• Konark Sun Temple was once described by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore as the place where the language of
stone surpasses the language of man.

Eastern Ganga Dynasty

• Eastern Ganga or Chodaganga Dynasty ruled over Kalinga or Odisha from the 5th century to the early 15th century.
• According to early Chodaganga copper-plate grants, the Eastern Gangas of Kalinga were a branch of Mysore’s ruling Western
Ganga family.
• Kamarnava is believed to be the founder of the Eastern Ganga dynasty, however, Indravarman I, whose Jirjingi copperplate
grant was issued in 537 CE, is the first historical ruler of the Eastern Ganga dynasty known from reliable records.
o The most powerful ruler of this dynasty was Anantavarman Chodaganga.
Structure of the Temple
Konark Sun Temple represents the most evolved period in
Kalinga Architecture.
• Entrance: The main entrance of the Sun Temple, the
Gajasimha - gaja meaning elephant and simha referring to
lions.
o According to mythology, lions resemble pride,
elephants resemble wealth and both of them kill the
human.
• Natya Mandapa: Gajasimha leads to the Sun Temple’s finely
carved Natya Mandapa, the hall for dance and theatre.
o The sculptures here depict different types of dance
styles.
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• Jagamohan or Mukhasala: It is the assembly hall of the temple and the steps that rise to Jagamohan are flanked by
stone horses.
• Deul: The Jagamohan is followed by the deul which is the sanctum where the idol is placed.
• Bhoga-mandira (kitchen) to make bhoga for the deity and devotees.
Kalinga Architecture
• Nature: The Nagara style of Northern India and the Dravida style
of South India were combined to create the Kalinga architecture.
• Typical architecture: The typical Kalinga temple consists of two
parts – a sanctum (deul) and a hall (Jagamohana). However, early-
period temples were devoid of Jagamohana.
o Later additions to the temple style include natya-mandapa
and then bhoga-mandira (kitchen).
• Categories: The architecture is broadly classified into three main
categories:
o Rekha deul: Square plan with a curvilinear tower resembling a
shikhara.
o Pidha Deul or Bhadra Deul: Square plan with a pyramidal
tower composed of horizontal tiers arranged in a receding
manner.
o Khakhara Deul: Rectangular plan with a barrel-shaped (vault shape) tower.
Architectural features of the Temple
• Sun rays: Sun Temple was designed in such a way that the rising sun's first rays would illuminate the sanctum and
the presiding deity.
• Chariot Design: The Sun Temple at Konark has been designed like chariot of Surya, the Sun God.
o The temple stands on a base of a total of 24 intricately carved wheels, 12 on each side.
o The chariot seems to be drawn eastwards towards the dawn by a team of seven spirited horses.
• Konark Wheel: The thicker wheels are all carved with circular medallions at their centres on the widest part of the
face.
o The rims are carved with designs of foliage with various birds and animals, whereas the medallions in the spokes
are carved with the figures of women in various luxurious poses, mostly of a sensual nature.
• Seven Horses: These seven horses have been named in Bhagawat Gita, as 'Gyatri', 'Usnika', 'Anustuv', 'Vrihati',
'Pangti', 'Tristup' and 'Jagati' which possibly stand for the rhythmic representation of the sacred verses of the Vedas.
o The seven horses are also named after the seven colours of the rainbow: Sahasrara (Violet), Indra-nila (Indigo),
Nila (Blue), Haritaha (Green), Pita (Yellow), Kausumbhaha (Orange) and Rakta (Red).
• Carvings of the Temple:
o War Horses: There are two carved war horses in front of the
southern side of the Konark Temple. The sculpture depicts
each of them with its massive strength and energy crushing
down the warrior.
✓ This figure of the war horse of Konark has been
accepted as the symbol of the state Government of
Odisha.
o Sun God: The Sun Temple has three impressive carvings of
the Sun God at three strategic locations, to catch the sun at
dawn, at noon and at sunset.
o Everyday activities: The carvings at the base of the temple
and on its walls chronicle everyday activities.
o Others: Some carvings depict sensuous details while others
exhibit mythical creatures and animals like elephants and
birds.

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Different Interpretations of the Konark Wheel
• Time: According to some,
o 7 horses represent the days of the week,
o 12 pairs of wheels represent the 12 months of the year
o 24 wheels signify 24 hours of a day and
o 8 major spokes signify prahars (three-hour period) of a day.
• Life cycle: Some suggest that the wheels of the chariot have been interpreted as the 'Wheel of Life'. They portray the
cycle of creation, preservation and achievement of realisation.
• Zodiac signs: These 12 pairs of wheels may also possibly represent the 12 zodiac signs.
• Dharmachakra: Some also believe that the Wheel of Konark is the same as the Dharmachakra of the Buddhists - The
Wheel of Karma, The Wheel of the Law.
• Sun dial: The wheels of the chariot have also been interpreted as the 'Sun Dial'. Four of the wheels can still be used
as sundials to tell the time.
o The Sun dial shows time anti-clockwise and the top centre wider spoke represents 12 o’clock midnight.
o The Konark wheel has 8 wider spokes and 8 thinner spokes. The distance between two wider spokes is 3 hours.
• Symbol of democracy: It also serves as a powerful symbol of the wheel of democracy that reflects the resilience of
democratic ideals and commitment to progress in society.
Conclusion
The Sun temple at Konark represents the peak of the Kalinga architecture and is a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage.

8.3. SACRED ENSEMBLES OF HOYSALAS

Why in the news?
The Sacred Ensembles of Hoysalas in Karnataka, has been declared
as 42nd UNESCO World Heritage Site (WHS).
More on News
• It includes the temples of Chennakeshava temple (Belur) and
Hoysaleshwara temple (Halebidu) and Keshava temple
(Somanathapur).
• These temples were built during 12th- 13th century.
• Hoysalas temples are 4th WHS of Karnataka. The other three are Hampi, Pattadakal and Western Ghat.
Temples and Features of the Hoysalas
• Chennakeshava Temple (also refered as Vijayanarayana Temple)
o Commissioned by: King Vishnuvardhana in 1117 CE in Belur Region, Hassan District.
✓ Located on the banks of the Yagachi River.
o Deity: It is an ekakuta (temple with one shrine) and the garbha griha (sanctum sanctorum) houses portrait of
Krishna.
✓ Dedicated to Lord Vishnu known as Chennakesava (Chenna (beautiful) and Keshava (Vishnu).
✓ It is a living temple (only worshiping temple among them).
o Key Features:
✓ Material: Built with Chloritic schist or soapstone, it is also used in other two temples.
✓ Platform: It stands on a Jagati (adhisthana).
✓ Garbhagriha: It is stellar in shape and its zigzag walls make the figures of 24 forms of Vishnu look different
at different times of the day due to light.
✓ Sculpture: Exterior sculptured depicts scenes from daily life, music, and dance, and narrate scenes from life
of Vishnu and his reincarnations and the epics, Ramayana, and Mahabharata.
✓ Some of the representations of Shiva are also included, along with Jainism and Buddhism.
• Hoysaleshwara Temple (Halebid Temple)
o Commissioned: in 1121 CE, King Vishnuvardhana played key role in its construction in Halebidu, Hassan.
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 ✓ Located on the banks of Dwarasamudra lake.
o Deity: Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Nataraja, the God of
Destruction.
o Key Features:
✓ Mandapa: It has a double building with a large hall for the
mandapa to facilitate music and dance.
✓ Vimana/Shikhara (temple towers): Absent.
✓ Sculptures: Depicts scenes from Ramayana, Mahabharata
and Bhagavata Purana.
▪ There are more than 240 images in the temple and no
other temple has these many intricate sculptures.
▪ Includes themes from Vaishnavism and Shaktism, too,
along with images from Jainism.
• Keshava Temple
o Commissioned by: Somanatha Dandanayaka (during the regime
of Narasimha III) in 1268 CE in Somanathapura, Mysuru.
✓ Located on the banks of River Kaveri.
o Deity: It is a Trikuta Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna in three
forms – Janardhana, Keshava and Venugopala.
o Key Features:
✓ Stellar plan: three Shrines and Vimanas (Tallest structure over main shrine).
✓ Prakaara: Multi-celled encloser.
✓ Vimana: Over all the three sanctums.
✓ Sculptures: Include Lord Vishnu, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi and
Saraswati.
Hoysala Architecture Style
• Followed hybrid or Vesara temple style. Its basic features includes:
o Basic blend of Dravidian and Nagara style.
o Show a strong influence of ‘Bhumija’.
✓ Bhumija is a variety of North Indian shikhara.
o Feature of ‘Nagara’ traditions of northern and western India.
o Karnata Dravida tradition of the Kalyani Chalukyan territories.
Key Features of Temple Architecture
• Style: Followed a stellate plan (looking like a star) built on a raised platform
(adhisthana).
o Several shrines arranged around a central pillared hall.
• Material used: Soapstone, these are soft and amiable to carving.
• Garbha griha (sanctum sanctorum): It houses a centrally placed murti (enshrined
icon) on a pitha (pedestal).
• Mandapas (hall where groups of people used to gather for prayers):
o They were both open and closed.
o Have circular pillars in their mandapas. Each pillar has four sculpted figures on the top brackets.
o Ceilings are ornate, with mythological figures and floral designs.
• Gopuram (entrance of temple): Lofty gopurams were constructed.
• Sculpture: Salabhanjika (a woman), a common form of sculpture.
• Vimana (structure over the garbhagriha or inner sanctum): Simple on the inside though lavishly decorated on the
outside.
• Other Features: Ceilings featured corbelled domes.
o On the uppermost part of the temple tower, temples have a vase-shaped water pot.
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Conclusion
The Sacred Ensembles of Hoysalas have enriched our heritage culture. Recognition from UNESCO will help in promoting
the conservation of the sites. Hoysala dynasty had played key role in encouraging temple architecture.

8.4. SANTINIKETAN
Why in the news?
Santiniketan has been designated as the 41st UNESCO World
Heritage Site (WHS) of India.
More on News
• It has been designated on the basis of following Cultural
Criteria of UNESCO:
o Exhibit an important interchange of human values on
developments in architecture or technology,
monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design.
o Directly or tangibly associated with events or living
traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and
literary works of outstanding universal significance.
• It is the third WHS of West Bengal, after the Sundarbans
National Park and the Darjeeling Mountain Railways.
• Along with Rabindranath Tagore, Surendranath Kar, Nandalal Bose, Patrick and Arthur Geddes played key role in
shaping it.

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About Santiniketan (Adobe of peace)
• Location: District Birbhum, West Bengal.
• Brief Description: It is an ensemble of historic buildings, landscapes and gardens, pavilions, artworks, and continuing
educational and cultural traditions.
o It represent unique brand of internationalism.
o It drew elements from ancient, medieval and folk traditions of India as well as Japanese, Chinese, Persian,
Balinese, Burmese and Art Deco forms (Western Europe and the United States).
• Uniqueness: It is a uniquely Indian example of a ‘total work of art’ (Gesamtkunstwerk) where life, learning, work
and art along with the local and the global intertwined.
o Complex includes 36 historic structures along with the sculptures and landscape features.
o It exhibits the crystallization of their ideas of humanism, inclusiveness, environmentalism and a pan Asian
modernism. Rathindranath Tagore’s Period in Santiniketan
• Establishment (Early Days) • He began his journey in Santiniketan, by establishing
o In the middle of the 19th century, Maharshi Brahmacharyashrama in 1901.
Devendranath Tagore (father of Rabindranath o It was inspired by ancient Vedic traditions of
Tagore) found solace and serenity in the barren tapoban and gurukul with open air classrooms
land. arranged under the canopies of trees.
o It earlier had an extensive forest cover, but ✓ From 1925 this ashrama came to be known as
substantial soil erosion gave certain areas a barren Patha-Bhavana.
look. This resulting phenomenon is locally known as • He established ashrama in Santiniketan due to its
khoai. environment.
o He wanted his students to be aware of their
o He purchased the land and built house, named,
environment, be in communication with it, probe it,
Santiniketan, in 1863. make experiments and collect data and specimens.
o The name later came to denote the entire area. • Visva Bharati University, Santiniketan:
o It is flanked on two sides by the rivers, the Ajay and o A ‘world university’ named Visva Bharati was
the Kopai. established in 1921.
o In 1951, Visva Bharati transitioned into a central
Key Architecture and Cultural Features
university with Rathindranath as the first vice-
• Overall: The first architectural structures are part of the chancellor.
complex was the glass Temple (Mandir), where worship o Major Departments/Initiatives
is non-denominational. ✓ Vidya Bhavan: Concentrated mainly on research
work and studies of different eastern cultures.
• It consist of three main areas:
✓ Siksha-Bhavan: Imparted collegiate education
o Ashrama (Hermitage)
up to the graduation level.
o Uttaryan (residential quarters, consists of the ✓ Sriniketan: For rural reconstruction.
Udayan, Konark, Shyamali, Punascha and Udichi )
o Kala Bhavana and Sangit Bavana, the schools for
Art and Music respectively.
• Indigenous Architecture Style: The buildings evolved
new forms, celebrating the narrative of local
communities, crafts, and nature.
o It veered away from the prevalent Beaux Arts
(Roman and Greek classicism but combined with
more flamboyant French and Italian Renaissance)
and European modernism.
• Buildings Material: Both traditional materials (mud
and thatch) and reinforced cement concrete.
• Open spaces: Integral part of complex, has been used
for cultural exchange and safeguard Indian art and
cultural events through the mediums of fairs and seasonal festivals.
o For engagements and discussions, adda (informal get-togethers) was there. Also, an eight-sided Dinanitika Cha
Chakra (evening tea party) was designed.
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• Decoration: Murals, frescoes, and sculptural friezes by leading Indian artists adorn at the walls.
o The walls and corridors of Kalo Bari are adorned with Bharhut, Mahabalipuram, Mohenjodaro, Egyptian and
Assyrian motifs.
Conclusion
Santiniketan is still playing key role in spreading the ideals fostered by the Rabindranath Tagore. Nation is taking forward
his legacy by incorporating his ideas in the education system.
About Rabindranath Tagore (1861- 1941)
• Birth Place: Kolkata
• Education: Educated at home (didn’t completed his formal education).
• Profession: Writer, song composer, playwright, essayist, and painter
• Awards: Nobel Prize in Literature (1913)
• Notable Works: Gitanjali, Kabuliwallah, Gora etc.
Contribution of Rabindranath Tagore in Education
• He promoted following elements: Self Realisation, Intellectual, Physical Development, Moral and
Spiritual, and Social Development.
• Also, included humanity, co-relation of objects (between man and nature) and economic
opportunities. Emphasised on mother tongue as the medium of instruction.
Difference Between views of Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore
• Education: Mahatma Gandhi was highly critical of Western education. On the other
hand, Rabindranath wanted to combine elements of modern Western civilisation with
best element of Indian tradition.
• Nationalism: According to Gandhiji, nationalism meant self-rule in which the whole
community and not just the elite would be free and active. Rabindranath believed that,
nationalism is individual selfishness raised to a higher level.
o Latter, opposed burning of foreign clothes and use of Charkha for
Similarities in their Views
Swadeshi Movement.
There were many similarities such as mother
• Technology: Gandhiji opposed worship of machines and technology.
tongue as medium of instruction, humanism
While Rabindranath emphasised the need to integration of science and
and the love of nature, etc.
technology in different walk of life.
Related News: Banglar Mati
• West Bengal declared Rabindranath Tagore’s Banglar mati, Banglar jol as its state anthem.
○ West Bengal Assembly also passed resolution making Poila Baishakh (first day of the Bengali calendar i.e. April 15) as the
statehood day
• Song was written during the Banga Bhanga movement against the partition and promotes communal harmony through
Raksha Bandhan.
○ Tagore also composed Amar sonar Bangla (national anthem of Bangladesh) and Vande Mataram (national song of India).

8.5. NEWS IN SHORTS

8.5.1. REVAMPED ‘ADOPT A HERITAGE
2.0’ PROGRAMME
• Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) launched
revamped ‘Adopt a Heritage 2.0’ programme.
• The scheme was originally launched in 2017 under
Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Culture, ASI, and
State/ UTs Government.
• Objective was ensuring quality and inclusive provision
of amenities through active participation of private
and public sector organizations and individual.
○ Director-General of ASI may receive voluntary
contributions towards the cost of maintaining a
protected monument under the Ancient
110 www.visionias.in
Monuments and Archaeological Sites and
Remains (AMASR) 1958, Act.
• Need for revamp
○ Lack of awareness about the prescribed guidelines
○ Infeasibility of amenities proposed for adopted
heritage sites
○ Complexity induced by semi-commercial activities
at the adopted sites
• Key highlights of Adopt a Heritage 2.0
o Smāraka Sārathī: Any private/ public sector
company/ trust/ NGO/ society that has been
selected by ASI for the programme (earlier called
as monument mitra).
©Vision IAS
 o Funding of projects: Private and public sector
companies shall utilize their CSR fund while others
may provide voluntary contribution.
o Flexibility: Either adopt a monument in whole or
provide a particular amenity such as drinking
water facility, cleaning services, etc. for one or
several sites.
o Four-pronged framework of amenities: Hygiene,
Accessibility, Safety, and Knowledge.
o Project Duration: 5 years.
8.5.2. ‘FUNCTIONING OF
ARCHAEOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA 8.5.3. MERI MAATI MERA DESH (MMMD)
(ASI)’ REPORT CAMPAIGN
• The report was presented by the Parliamentary
• MMMD is a nationwide and people led initiative to
Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and
commemorate 75 years of India's independence.
Culture.
• It celebrates the many achievements of the nation and
• The report incorporates the challenges associated with
involves paying tribute to the 'Veers' who protect our
ASI and Committee’s recommendations for improving
nation.
working of ASI.
• Challenges with working of ASI 8.5.4. NEW PARLIAMENT'S GATES AND
o Centrally Protected Monuments list includes a THEIR GUARDIANS
large number of minor monuments with no
national significance. • New Parliament has 6 entrances, each signifying a
✓ For instance, list includes 75 graves of colonial different role.
era soldiers or officials of no notable o Out of these, 3 are designed as ceremonial
importance. entrances, to welcome special guests and to
o Provision of 100-meter prohibited area and 300- mark special events.
meter regulated area around all ASI-protected o Ceremonial entrances have been also named as
monuments invites criticism from local Gyan, Shakti and Karma, representing the
community as they find it difficult to carry out Indian knowledge system, patriotism and artistic
necessary repair work of their residential houses.
traditions, respectively.
✓ This provision was introduced in 2010 through
an amendment in Ancient Monuments and Ceremonial entrances and their Guardians
Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Gaja Dwar • Represents wisdom
Act, 1958. (North Gate) and wealth, intellect,
o Restoration is being done without taking and memory, and also
cognizance of original design/beauty of embodies the
Monument. aspirations of the
• Recommendations elected representatives
o ASI should be rationalised and categorised on of the democracy.
• Inspired by a similar
basis of their national significance, unique
statue at
architectural value and specific heritage content.
Madhukeshvara
o ASI should be divided into two wings namely ASI
Temple at Banabasi,
(look after core mandate, i.e. exploration,
Karnataka.
excavation and conservation aspects) and India Garuda Dwar • Eagle-like Garuda
Heritage Development Corporation (IHDC) to deal (Eastern stands, which signifies
with ASI’s entire revenue. Gate) the aspirations of the
o Advanced technologies like LiDAR, ground- people and the
penetrating radar, and 3D scanning should be used administrators of the
for enhanced accuracy and efficiency of country.
excavations. • Inspired by a similar
statue of Nayaka

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 period sculpture from
Kumbhakonam, Tamil
Nadu.
Ashwa Dwar • Horse standing alert
(Southern and ready which is
Gate) symbol of endurance
and strength, power,
and speed, also
describing the quality of
governance.
• Inspired by a similar
statue at the Sun
temple, Konark,
Odisha.
Public Entrances and their Guardians
Shardul • Mythological creature,
Dwar Shardul symbolising the
(Western power of the people of
Gate) the country. 8.5.6. STATUE OF ONENESS
• Inspired by a similar
statute at Shiva Temple • Madhya Pradesh government unveiled a 108-foot-tall
at Sihonia in Morena, statue Adi Shankaracharya in Omkareshwar and
Madhya Pradesh. named it as Statue of Oneness.
Hansa • Reminding the people ○ Adi Shankaracharya, also known as Jagadguru,
Dwar(North the power of was the founder of Advaita Vedanta (non-dualism)
East) discernment and self- in 8th century.
realisation as essential ○ He was born in Kaladi in Kerala.
feature of Democracy.
• Inspired by a similar
statute at Vijay Vitthala
Temple, Hampi,
Karnataka.
Makara • Mythological aquatic
Dwar creature, Makara
representing, unity in
diversity among the
people of the country. 8.5.7. ANCIENT STITCHED SHIPBUILDING
• Inspired by a similar METHOD (TANKAI METHOD)
statute at the
Hoysaleshwara Temple • Recently, the Ministry of Culture collaborated with the
at Halebidu. Indian Navy to reconstruct an ancient stitched ship.
o The Ministry of Culture has fully funded this
8.5.5. CHAUSATH YOGINI TEMPLE
project.
• It is believed that the design of the old Parliament o Indian Navy is overseeing the ship’s design and
building was inspired from Chausath Yogini temple construction.
located in mitaoli village in Madhya Pradesh. • Under the project, a 21-metre “stitched ship” will be
o Old Parliament building was designed by architects made using an ancient technique of constructing a ship
Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker. by stitching the planks of wood using ropes, cords,
• The grand Chausath Yogini temple is circular, with 64 coconut fibres, natural resins and oils.
chambers dedicated to the 64 yoginis, and a central o These ships, constructed by stitching wooden
shrine dedicated to Shiva. planks together rather than using nails, offered
o The 64 yoginis are believed to be powerful flexibility and durability, making them less
warriors and sorceresses. susceptible to damage from shoals and sandbars.
• It was built around 1323 by King Devapala of the o The idea of ship design was taken from an Ajanta
Kachchhapaghata dynasty. painting of a stitched ship.
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• Ancient trade Routes: Ministry of Culture has recently
joined hands with the Indian Navy and Goa-based Hodi
Innovations to reconstruct an ancient stitched ship.
o Reminiscent of the ships are that sailed the oceans
on India’s ancient maritime trade routes towards
South and South East Asian Region.
o This initiative is in synergy with the Ministry of
Culture’s Project Mausam.
✓ Project Mausam aims to reconnect and re-
establish communications between countries
of the Indian Ocean world, to create an
understanding of cultural values and concerns.
✓ It aims to rebuild maritime cultural
connections with the 39 countries bordering
the Indian Ocean.
• Ancient trade Routes: The Indian Ocean trade routes
connected Southeast Asia, India, Arabia, and East
Africa, beginning at least as early as the 3rd century BCE.
o Important ancient ports:
✓ West coast ports: Barygaya, Suppara,
Calliena,Semylla, Mandagore,
Palaepatme,Malizigara,
Aurranobbas,Byzantine, Naura, Tyndis,
Muziris and Nelcynda.
✓ East coast ports: Tamralipti, Charitrapur,
Paluru, Dantapur, Kalingapatnam, Pithunda,
Sopatma, Ghantasala, Poduca, Puhar, Korkai
and Camara
• Some of the important trade routes
o Ancient Maritime and cultural links to South and
Southeast Asian regions: Local traders known as
Sadhavs used to sail through place of South and
South East Asian regions like Bali, Sumatra, Silon
(Sri Lanka), etc.
o Red Sea trade route: This maritime highway linked
the Roman Empire and India, through the Red Sea.
✓ Trade was in like spices, ivory, pearls, and
precious gemstones, etc.
o Silk Road: An overland trade route supposedly
stretching all the way across Asia from Xian in China
to Antioch in Turkey.
8.5.8. KOKBOROK LANGUAGE
• Kokborok is the language spoken by the Borok people
belonging to Tripura.
o Borok are branch of Boro people of Assam
belonging to Sino-Tibetan linguistic group and
racially Mongoloids.
• Kokborok belong to Tibeto-Burman family and has
close affinity with other language family like Bodo,
Garo, Dimasa etc.
o Doulot Ahammad wrote the first Kokborok
Grammar (1897).
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• It is one of the state languages of Tripura.
o It is declared as official language of Tripura Tribal
Areas Autonomous District Council.
8.5.9. SANGEET NATAK AKADEMI AMRIT
AWARDS
• Recently, 84 artists were conferred with the Sangeet
Natak Akademi Amrit Awards.
• About the Award
o Purpose:
✓ National honour bestowed by the country
on performing artists, teachers and scholars
in the field of performing arts.
✓ To honour the Indian artists aged above 75
years who have not been accorded any
national honour in their career so far.
✓ This is one-time awards by the Sangeet
Natak Akademi.
o Prize: ₹1 lakh, besides a ‘Tamrapatra’ and
‘Angavastram’.
o Award presented by: Vice president of India.
8.5.10. NEW NATIONAL AWARDS NAMED
“RASHTRIYA VIGYAN PURASKAR (RVP)’’
• About Awards
○ Objective: To acknowledge remarkable
contributions made by scientists across diverse
fields of science & technology.
○ Domains for Awards: 13 domains, including
Physics, Chemistry, Atomic Energy, Space, etc.
Representation from each domain including
gender parity will be ensured.
○ Eligibility:
✓ Scientists/ technologists/innovators working
in government, private sector organizations
or any individual working outside any
organization.
✓ People of Indian Origin staying abroad with
exceptional contributions benefiting Indian
communities.
©Vision IAS
 ○ Selection Process: Selected by Rashtriya Vigyan
Puraskar Committee, headed by Principal
Scientific Adviser to Government of India. It will
comprise of
✓ Secretaries of Science Departments,
✓ Members of Science and Engineering
Academies and
✓ Distinguished scientists and technologists.
○ Other
✓ Awards shall be announced on 11th May
(National Technology Day). 8.5.11. RAMON MAGASAYSAY AWARD
✓ Award Ceremony will be held on 23rd • Assam-based oncologist Ravi Kannan is among winners
August (National Space Day). of 2023 Ramon Magsaysay Award.
✓ All Awards will have a Sanad & a medal. • Established in 1957, the Ramon Magsaysay Award is
regarded as the Asian version of the Nobel Prize.
• It is named after Ramon Magsaysay, the 7th president
(1953-57) of Philippines.Ramon Magsaysay Award
Foundation (RMAF) honours individuals or
organizations in Asia every year for social contribution
activities.

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8. CULTURE
8.1. RURAL TOURISM
Why in the news?
Recently, the United Nations World Tourism
Organization (UNWTO) announced its list of
Best Tourism Villages 2023.
More on news
• Launched in 2021, Best Tourism Villages
by UNWTO initiative is part of the UNWTO
Tourism for Rural Development
Programme.
• The initiative comprises three pillars:
o Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO:
Recognizes outstanding rural tourism
destinations with accredited cultural
and natural assets, a commitment to
preserving community-based values,
and a clear commitment to innovation
and sustainability across economic,
social, and environmental dimensions.
o Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO
Upgrade Programme: Supports
villages on their journey to meet
recognition criteria, helping in areas
identified as gaps during evaluation.
o Best Tourism Villages Network: A
space for exchanging experiences and
good practices, learning, and
opportunities among its members,
and it is open to contributions of
experts and public and private sector partners engaged in the promotion of tourism as a driver for rural
development.

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 Dhordo Village (Best Tourism Villages 2023) Madla Village (Selected in Upgrade
Programme)
• Dhordo village in Kutch district of Gujarat has gained global recognition as one of • Madla Village is located in Panna
the Best Tourism Villages awarded by the UNWTO. district of Madhya Pradesh.
• Dhordo is famous for hosting the annual Rann • River Karnawati (Ken) flows
Utsav (White Desert Festival). through the village.
o Rann Utsav celebrated every year in November • Some intangible heritage of the
onwards by Gujarat Tourism. It is a cultural village includes folk music &
extravaganza that showcases the region’s dance, local festivals and
traditional art, music, crafts, dance, and Bundelkhand cuisine.
cuisine. • The architecture of the houses is
o Dhordo is also home to the Mutwa community still has the essence of the village.
from Sindh, specialising in Mutwa embroidery (chain of stitches inset with
mirrors, silver jewellery and leather embroidery).
About Rural Tourism
• Rural tourism represents any form of tourism that showcases the rural life, art, culture and heritage at rural areas.
o Ministry of Tourism has identified rural tourism as a niche area for the development and promotion of rural India.
o Different forms to rural tourism include agritourism, cultural tourism, ecotourism, etc.
• Rural Tourism activities take place in non-urban (rural) areas with the following characteristics:
o Low population density.
o Landscape and land use are dominated by agriculture and forestry.
o Traditional social structure and lifestyle.
Challenges associated with Rural Tourism
• Poor infrastructure: Long distance from nearby towns; lack of connectivity and poor transportation facilities;
inadequate lodging, amusement facilities, electricity, telecommunication including ICT infrastructure etc.
• Lack of awareness and skills: Rural
populations often lack knowledge, skill
and financial backing to market their
cultural, artistic, and craft-related
services to tourists.
• Lack of trained manpower: Rural areas
lack trained human resources affecting
directly the tourism and hospitality
industry. Moreover, the trained
workforce from urban areas generally
tends to refrain from tapping rural
tourism opportunities due to the
seasonal demand of the industry.
• Digital Illiteracy: Digital literacy in rural
areas hinders the adoption of
technology-based solutions to market
and attract tourists such as
advertisements on social media, online
booking services etc.
Initiatives taken to promote Rural
Tourism
• National Strategy and Roadmap for
Development of Rural Tourism in
India: It aims to leverage India’s rural
heritage in creating a vibrant and responsible tourism segment by creating engaging rural experiences.
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• National Strategy for Promotion of Rural Homestays (RH): It aims to develop RH as an experiential tourism product
which boosts rural tourism.
o Ministry of Tourism has designated the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM) as the
Central Nodal Agency (CNA-Rural Tourism and Rural Homestay). It identifies villages which provide a set of
unique experiences to tourists. For instance,
✓ Tamil Nadu's Kolukkumalai (highest tea plantation in world); Kerala's Devalo- kam (yoga centre);
Telangana's Pochampalli village (traditional weaving Kongthong (East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya)
techniques); Maachli in Maharashtra (agrarian homestay • It is popular as the ‘whistling village’ due
surrounded by coconut, banana plantations) etc. to its unique tradition of ‘Jingrwai Lawbei’
• National Tourism Awards (NTA): The Ministry of Tourism presents (meaning the Song of the Clan’s First
annually NTA to various segments of the travel, tourism and Woman).
hospitality industry including State Governments in recognition of • It is a tradition under which mothers
their performance and to encourage healthy competition to create a tune for their newborns. These
promote tourism. tunes are often used as names.
• Kongthong people belong to the Seng
o Kongthong village honoured with 'Best Tourism Village
Khasi Tribe and speak the Khasi language.
(Bronze)' award at National Tourism Awards (NTA) 2023
• Dekho Apna Desh Scheme: It aims to increase domestic tourism in India by encouraging people to explore the rich
cultural heritage and diversity of India.
• Unity Mall: It was announced in Union budget 2023-2024. These malls can be set up either in their state capitals or
major tourism and economic centres to promote and sell each state’s unique “one district, one product” (ODOPs),
“geographical indication” (GI), and other handicraft products.
Way ahead
• Digital Literacy: Indian tourism startups along with NGOs can provide digital literacy and simplified digital solutions
to improve service delivery, advertise local attractions etc. to attract tourists to the rural space.
• Infrastructure: Developing community-based tourism infrastructure and attracting public-private partnerships can
address the issue of lack of tourism infrastructure in rural areas.
• Government Support: To facilitate rural tourism, the government can provide both financial and infrastructure
support for recognized and high-potential tourist attractions. E.g., subsidies for the skill development of guides,
creation of adventure sports infrastructure etc.
• Collaboration and recognition: Convergence of various schemes from different ministries focusing on rural
development to promote sustainable rural tourism and providing recognition to attract tourists.
• Marketing: Measures like Integration of rural tourism in the state tourism architecture, marketing and building places
for niche tourism such as Agri-tourism, water sports etc. can increase the appeal of rural destinations.

8.2. MILITARY SYSTEMS IN ANCIENT INDIA

Why in news?
Recently, Defense minister
launched Project Udbhav
at inauguration of Indian
Military Heritage Festival
(IMHF).
Project Udbhav
• It is a collaborative
project between the
Indian Army and the
United Service
Institution of India
(USI), a defense think tank.
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• Objective:
o To rediscover the profound Indic heritage of statecraft and strategic thoughts. (‘Udbhav’ translates to ‘origin’ or
‘genesis’)
o To integrate ancient Indian wisdom with modern military pedagogy through interdisciplinary research,
workshops and leadership seminars.
o Formulate a holistic approach to modern military challenges using ancient military wisdom.
Military systems in Ancient India
India’s ancient military wisdom is based upon large body of intellectual texts, scriptures, manuscripts, thinkers and study
of prominent military campaigns and leaders.
• Kautilya’s realism: Kautilya wrote Arthasastra around 300 BC, belongs to Mauryan period. His strategies emphasize
understanding ground realities and adapting tactics accordingly.
o Mandala theory: It deals with knowledge of foes, friends and allied countries.
✓ It postulates that immediate neighbor state is most likely to be an enemy (real or potential) and a state next
to the immediate neighbor is likely to be friendly.
o Diplomacy and Alliances: Kautilya placed a strong emphasis on diplomatic strategies and forming alliances to
achieve strategic goals.
o Intelligence Gathering: He advocated the use of spies (Amatyas) to collect information about enemy capabilities,
intentions, and weaknesses.
o Logistics and Supply Chains: The Arthashastra discusses the importance of proper provisioning and management
of resources for the success of military expeditions.
• Kamandaka by Nitisara: It belongs to the Gupta age and follows the Arthasastra tradition.
o Building and maintaining friendly relations with neighbouring states were considered vital for the overall security
and stability of the kingdom.
o Strategy of Upeksha (diplomatic neglect, diplomatic indifference), Maya (deception) reused and revived during
the Indian freedom struggle.
o Proposed that army with women can also fight.
• Thiruvalluvar by Thiruvalluvar (31 BC): It deals with Ethical conduct during warfare.
o It aligns with modern military codes of ethics of just war and principles of Geneva Convention.
• Agni Purana: It was first to explain the philosophy of reserve (pratigraha) on the battlefield. Reserves are integral
part of modern day army structure.
• Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhuddhist Jatakas: The victory and defeat in the battle largely depended on the knowledge
of the science of Vyuha and the tactical deployment of the troops.
Relevance in today’s time
• Kautilyan realism: India today can benefit from adopting a realistic assessment of geopolitical challenges and
opportunities. Ex: Understanding the strategic motive of China, USA.
• Enduring Elements of Kautilya's foreign policy: such as the fight for power, national interests, alliances, enmity, and
diplomacy, remain unaltered.
• Being Vigilant: Mandala theory suggests that natural adversaries do not imply constant warfare but necessitate a
state of alertness in international relations. Ex: India is vigilant in its borders with Pakistan and China.
• Ethical principles: Thiruvalluvar's ethical principles provide a timeless framework for evaluating the morality of
actions in modern conflicts.
o Leaders are expected to exemplify moral conduct and inspire their followers to adhere to ethical standards.

8.3. SIR SYED AHMED KHAN

Why in the news?
Year 2023 marked Sir Syed Ahmed Khan’s 125th death anniversary.
About Sir Syed Ahmed Khan (1817-1898)
• He worked as a civil servant, journalist, educationist, social reformer and historian.
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• Religious view
o Sir Syed Ahmed Khan’s interpretation of Islam emphasised the validity of
free enquiry (ijtihad).
o He also highlighted similarities between Koranic revelations and the laws
of nature discovered by modern science
• Writings:
o He has also written a paper titled “The Causes of the Indian Revolt” to
explain the reasons for the revolt from native perspective.
o The Aligarh Institute Gazette, a magazine published by him was an organ
of the Scientific Society, succeeded in agitating the minds in the traditional
Muslim society.
o Tahzebul Akhlaq (Social Reformer in English), a magazine founded by him,
to awaken people’s consciousness on social and religious issues.
o He was also a scholar on Christianity and wrote a book, ‘Commentary on
the Holy Bible’.
o Historical Documentation: His works, like "Asar-us-Sanadid," contributed
to preservation of India's rich cultural heritage and serve as valuable historical references.
Role as a Social Reformer
• Transformation in the Education sector
o He instituted Scientific Society in 1863 to instill a scientific temperament into the Muslims.
o He foresaw the imperative need for the Muslims to acquire proficiency in the English language.
o He realised that the advancement of Muslims depended on their adoption of modern education and proficiency
in the English language.
o He founded Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in Aligarh in 1875 and started the Aligarh movement.
o He was against ignorance, religious intolerance, and irrationalism.
• As part of National Movement
o In his later years, Sir Syed encouraged the Indian Muslims not to join the National Movement.
o He is regarded as one of the founders of the Two-Nation Theory which says that Hindus and Muslims cannot
coexist as a single nation.
• Record on women’s rights: Conservative
o Sir Syed Ahmed Khan faced criticism for advocating "disorganized tutor-based home education" for women,
focusing on family roles.
o He expressed concerns that formal education for women might hinder their marriage prospects.
o He supported gender segregation and purdah-centric home education, opposing co-education and girls'
institutions.
o Despite this, he denounced polygamy, Infanticide, and child marriage.
o His visit to England in 1869-70 influenced a somewhat revised outlook on women's education, recognizing its
importance for societal progress and acknowledging women's freedom in Europe.
Conclusion
Sir Syed Ahmed Khan's contributions and ideas are relevant in addressing various challenges that India faces today,
including education, social reform, gender equality, interfaith harmony, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

8.4. RANI DURGAVATI

Why in news?
Recently, 500th birth anniversary of Veerangana Rani Durgavati was celebrated.
About Rani Durgavati
• She was born in Chandel Dynasty of Mahoba in Banda, UP and was married to Dalpatshah of Gond Dynasty of Garha-
Katanga in 1542.
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 o Gonds are one of the largest tribal groups and located in central India.
• Assuming leadership: She took reins of the Gond Dynasty in 1550 after Dalpatshah’s
death as the guardian of her son Veer Narayan.
• Conflict with Akbar: She was contemporary of Mughal emperor Akbar. During her
reign, Akbar attacked the Gond Empire under the leadership of Asaf Khan.
o She opposed Mughal expansionism.
Contributions
• Infrastructure Development: She constructed reservoirs such as Ranital, Cherital and
Adhartal and moved the Capital to Chauragarh (from Singaurgarh) on the strategic
Satpura Hill Range.
• Patronage of Religious Figures: She allowed Acharya Bitthalnath to establish a seat
of the Pushtimarg Cult at Garha. She welcomed the Vitthalnath of Vallabh
community and took Diksha from him.
• Commitment to Secular Governance.
• Victory over Baz Bahadur of Malwa: Tarikh-i-Firishta mentions Durgavati defeated Baz Bahadur, the ruler of Malwa.
• Historical documentation: Story of Durgavati was chronicled by Abul Fazl (Akbar’s chronicler) and British Colonel,
Sleeman.
About Chandela dynasty of Bundelkhand
• Chandelas were an Indian Rajput clan of Central India (aka Jejakabhukti dynasty).
o Founder: Nanuka in 835 CE.
o Prominent Rulers: Yashovarman, Dhanga, Vidhyadhara, Paramardideva, Trilokyavarman.
• Major Cities: Capital city: Khajuraho (later changed to Mahoba)
• Language: Sanskrit and Prakrit
• Social System: Varna system was the basis of social organisation. Women as wives occupied a high place in the family
and society.
• Features of Temples of Khajuraho School (mid-10th century)
o Themes: erotic sculptures drawing inspiration from Vatsyayana’s Kamasutra.
o Religion: belonged to the Hindu and Jain religions.
o Material: Sandstone.
o Components: The temples had three chambers - Garbhagriha, Mandapa and Ardhamandapa.
o Direction: North or East facing.
o Method: The temples were built on a relatively high platform and Panchayatana style of temple making.
o Lakshmana Temple (Vishnu)- built by Yashovarman
o Vishvanatha Temple (Shiva) Parshavanatha Temple (Jain) - built by Dhanga
o Kandariya Mahadeva Temple (Shiva)-built by Vidhyadara
o Sun temple in Mahoba – built by Rahil Dev Varman
• Contributed to the rich heritage of Bundelkhand and constructed multiple temples inside of Kalinjar Fort.
• Decline: Invasion of Mahmud Ghaznavid, Qutb ud-Din Aibak.

8.5. NEWS IN SHORTS

8.5.1. NOBEL PRIZE IN LITERATURE FOR
2023
• It was awarded to the Norwegian author and dramatist
Jon Fosse, “for his innovative plays and prose which
give voice to the unsayable.”
• The Academy honoured Fosse’s body of work written
in Norwegian Nynorsk which includes several plays,
novels, poetry collections, essays, children’s books and
translations.
o Nynorsk is one of two official languages of Norway.
• Nobel prize for Literature is worth 11 million Swedish
kronor ($1 million) and is regarded widely as the
world’s most prestigious literary award.
• The Nobel Prize in Literature has been awarded 116
times to 120 Nobel laureates between 1901 and 2023.

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• In the recent years, the prizes have gone to French
author Annie Ernaux (2022), Tanzanian novelist
Abdulrazak Gurnah (2021).
8.5.2. TOTO LANGUAGE
• The Toto is a primitive and isolated tribal group of
population of about 1,600 only and their language is
called Toto language.
• Toto Para is located at the foot of the Himalayas just to
the south of the borderline between Bhutan and West
Bengal (on the western bank of Torsa River).
• Toto language belongs to the Sino-Tibetan family.
• The Toto language does not have its own script.
• Dhaniram has created the Toto language script and
Toto alphabet, for which he received ‘Padma Shri’.
8.5.3. ARUNACHAL YAK CHURPI
• Arunachal Yak Churpi becomes the first ever Yak milk
product to get a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
• Yak Churpi is a naturally fermented cheese prepared
from milk of Arunachali yak reared in the high Altitude
areas in Arunachal Pradesh.
o Rich in protein, used as a substitute of vegetables
or mixed in meat curry or eaten with rice as a
staple food.
• GI tag is going to serve the cause of yak conservation
and yak pastoralists’ socio-economic upliftment.
o Arunachali Yaks is reared by tribal yak pastoralists
known as Brokpas.
8.5.4. MAA DANTESHWARI TEMPLE
(CHHATTISGARH)
• Dedicated to: six armed Mahisasuramardini as
Danteswari carved on a black stone.
o It is one of the Sakti-pithas (total 51) of India.
• Located at: the confluence of rivers Sankhini and
Dankini.
• Constructed by: the rulers of Chindak Nagvanshi
during 11th -12th century A.D.
o Further in the 14th century A.D. this temple was
renovated by Annamdev who was the brother of
Prataprudra of Kakatiya dynasty.
o The emergence of the Mewar School is
associated with a set of Ragamala paintings
painted at Chawand in 1605 by an artist named
Nisardin.
o In the 18th century, Mewar painting shifted
towards courtly and secular subjects, including
portraiture, court scenes, hunting expeditions,
festivals, zenana activities, and sports.
o The Nathdwara School is a subset of the Mewar
School of painting.
• Features:
o It is characterized by simple bright colour and
direct emotional appeal.
o Miniature painting is a small, finely wrought
portrait executed on vellum, prepared card,
copper, or ivory.
• Mewar school artists: Sāhibdīn (drew Raagmala),
Manohar (Bal Kanda of Ramayana), and Jagannath
(Bihari Satsai).
• About Rajasthani painting:
o It differs from the Mughal painting in its bolder
use of colour, an abstract and conventionalized
conception of the human figure, and an
ornamental treatment of landscape.
o Two main factors contributed to the
development of Rajasthani paintings:
✓ the patronage of rich Rajputana
communities
✓ the revival of Vaishnavism and the growth of
bhakti cults.

8.5.5. MEWAR SCHOOL OF PAINTING

• Allah Baksh, Maharana Jai Singh’s Court painter,
had illustrated the Mahabharata with 4,000 Mewari
miniature paintings.
• About Mewar Miniature painting (17th-18th
centuries)
o It is a school in the Rājasthanī style developed in
Mewar (Rajasthan).

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8.5.6. 53RD DADASAHEB PHALKE
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
• Ms. Waheeda Rehman was honoured with this award.
• About award
o It is India's highest award in the field of cinema
presented annually at the National Film Awards
ceremony by the Directorate of Film Festivals
(under Ministry of Information and Broadcasting).
o Award was first introduced in 1969 and was
bagged by actress Devika Rani.
o Award is given to commemorate Dadasaheb
Phalke's contribution to Indian cinema who
directed India's first full-length feature film, Raja
Harishchandra in 1913.
o The award comprises a Swarna Kamal (Golden
Lotus) medallion, a shawl, and a cash prize of ₹10
lakh.

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8. CULTURE
8.1. SANT MEERA BAI
Why in the News?
The 525th birth anniversary of Sant Meerabai was recently celebrated in Mathura,
Uttar Pradesh.
About Sant Meera Bai (1498-1546)
• Meerabai was a great Bhakti saint, Hindu mystic poet and a devotee of the Lord
Krishna.
• Early life
o She was born as Princess of Mewar and her childhood name was Yashodha.
o In 1516, Meera Bai married to Rana Bhoj Raj the crown prince of Mewar who was the son the Rana Sanga.
✓ Rana Sanga is famous for his leadership in the Battle of Khanwa (1527), where he led the Rajput alliance
against Mughal Emperor Babur.
o After the death of Bhoj Raj in 1521, she left Mewar in search of lord Krishna.
• Life as a saint
o She moved to multiple places including Brindavan and in her later years she moved to Dwarka.
o She followed Saguna bhakti and considered Lord Krishna as her husband since her childhood.
o She addresses Lord Krishna as Giridhar Gopal.
• Major works
o Meerabai’s poetry portrays a unique relationship wherein she is not only the devoted bride of Krishna, but
Krishna is ardent in his pursuit of Mira.
o One of her celebrated songs is “Paayoji maine Ram Ratan dhan paayo (today I got the most precious wealth of
Lord Rama’s name)”.
o Meerabai's poems in Braj language, sung during prayers and expressing emotions to Lord Krishna, make up her
poetry collection.
✓ These include Raag Govind, Narsi Ji Ka Mayara, Geet Govind ki Tika, Meera Bai ki Malhar, Raag Vihaag and
Garba Geet.
✓ Some of her bhajans translated into English by Robert Bly and Jane Hirshfield as ‘Meerabai: Ecstatic Poems’.
o Bhaktmal, a poetry collection that describes the biography of Meera Bai, is written by Guru Nabha Dass ji in 1585
in Braj language.
• Social Reforms
o She became a disciple of Sant Ravidas (also known as Raidas) who belonged to a caste considered
“untouchable”.
o Her songs also openly challenged the norms of the upper castes and became popular with the masses in
Rajasthan and Gujarat.
o She rejected traditional women’s roles and societal norms by leaving palace and choose to become wanderer.
Conclusion
Sant Meerabai, a symbol of divine love, has inspired generations with her songs, and her devotion continues to influence
people to embrace spiritual values.
About Bhakti Movement
The Bhakti movement originated in South India between the 7th and the 12th centuries A.D. Saint believed in the equality of all
humans, disregarding caste distinctions.
Bhakti movement in different regions
• South India
o Initially led by the Alvars (Devotees of Lord Vishnu) and Nayanars (devotees of Lord Siva).
✓ They connected with masses through use of local language.
o Nayanars: Devotees of Lord Siva, were sixty-three in number. Famous saints were Appar, Sundarar, Thirugnana
Sambandar and Manickavachakar.
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 o Alwars: Devotees of Lord Vishnu who were twelve in number. Famous saints were Nammalwar, Tirumangai Alwar, Andal
and Perialwar.
✓ The devotional songs of Andal are called
Thiruppavai.
✓ Alvars songs were compiled in the Divya
Prabandham.
• Central and North India
o From South Bhakti movement spread to central
and North India around 13th century and saw
a new wave of the bhakti movement in north.
o Bhakti traditions into two broad categories:
✓ Saguna: Worship of God with attributes or
form. Example: Tuslidas, Meera Bai, etc.
✓ Nirguna: Worship of the Formless form of
God. Examples: Kabir Das, Guru Nanak Dev,
etc.
• Maharashtra
o From the thirteenth to the seventeenth
centuries Maharashtra saw a great number of
saint-poets who composed poems in Marathi
language.
o Region focused on the Vitthala (a form of
Vishnu) temple in Pandharpur and followed
Warkari tradition.
o Famous saints- Janeshwar, Namdev, Eknath
and Tukaram as well as women like Sakkubai
and the family of Chokhamela, who belonged
to the “untouchable” Mahar caste.
o These saint-poets rejected all forms of
ritualism, outward display of piety and social
differences based on birth.
• East and North East
o Neo-Vaishnavite Movement was propagated by Śaṅkaradeva in Assam region.
o Chaitanya mahaprabhu, a great devotee of Lord Krishna, was a saint from Bengal. He popularised ‘Sankritan or public
singing of God’s name.

8.2. KAZI NAZRUL ISLAM

Why in the News?
The re-tuning of Kazi Nazrul Islam’s 1922 anti-British anthem Karar Oi Louho Kopat (Iron
bars of a jail) for a film has led to widespread criticism in Bangladesh.
About Kazi Nazrul Islam (1899-1976)
• Childhood and Early Life
o Born in Churulia village, Burdwan (now Bardhaman) district of West Bengal.
o In 1917, he joined the Indian Army as a soldier and later on became Battalion
Quarter Master (Havildar).
• He is popularly known as the Bidrohi Kobi (Rebel Poet), as many of his works rebelled against oppression of humans
through slavery, hatred and tradition.
• He wrote and composed more than 2000 songs which are popularly known as ‘Nazrul Geeti’.
• Major Works:
o In 1919, he published his first piece, 'The Autobiography of a Delinquent' or ‘Saogat’, while serving in the army.
✓ Nazrul left the military in 1920 and then joined the ‘Bengali Muslim Literary Society’.
o He is famous for his works like Bandhan-hara (Freedom from bondage), ‘Bodhan', 'Shat-il-Arab', 'Badal Prater
Sharab', etc.
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 o He created his famous poem 'Anondomoyir Agomone' in 1922, for which he was sent to prison for one year by
the British authority.
o In 1930 his book Pralayshikha was banned and he faced charges of sedition. He was sent to jail and released
after the 1931, Gandhi–Irwin Pact was signed.
• Role in National movement
o He motivated people to fight against the British through his poems, plays, etc.
o He took an active part through his writings on Swadishi and Khilafat movement.
o He organized the Sramik Praja Swaraj Dal (Workers and Peasant Party).
✓ Sramik Praja Swaraj Dal, a socialist political party which worked within the Indian National Congress (INC).
o He became critic of the "Khilafat" struggle and the INC for not bargaining political independence from the British
Empire.
• Hindu Muslim Unity: During Hindu-Muslim riots in Calcutta in 1926, he called for Hindu-Muslim unity and criticises
attempt perpetuated by some individuals from both communities to construct their respective oppositional identities.
• Awards & Achievements
o In 1960, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, one of the highest civilian honors of the Republic of India.
o He was conferred the title of 'national poet' and awarded the 'Ekushey Padak' by the Bangladesh.
✓ ‘Ekushey Padak’, the second-highest civilian award of the Bangladesh.
Conclusion
Kazi Nazrul Islam, renowned for his work in Bengali literature, has been declared the ‘National Poet of Bangladesh’. His
works have played a significant role in fostering patriotism and a sense of cultural belonging among the youth.
Furthermore, his contributions serve as a cultural bridge between India and Bangladesh, strengthening the bonds of
friendship and mutual respect between the two nations.

8.3. SHARDA TEMPLE

Why in the news?
Navratri puja was held at the newly built Sharda Devi Temple close to
the Line of Control (LoC) in Teetwal village in the Kupawara district of
Jammu and Kashmir.
More in news
• Earlier this year, Maa Sharda temple was opened at Teetwal in
the frontier district of Kupwara near the LoC on one of the base
camps en route to the traditional Sharda Peeth in the Neelam
Valley of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
About Sharda Devi Peeth
• Sharada Peeth was one of the three principal shrines of the region, along with the Martand Sun Temple and the
Amarnath Temple, before the Partition of India and Pakistan.
• The temple has a close resemblance with the Martand temple in architecture, design and construction style.
• Al Beruni famous scholar and traveller described the temple as a much-venerated site of pilgrimage.
• Previously, the Pakistani government sanctioned a plan to create a corridor facilitating the visit of Hindu pilgrims
from India to Sharada Peeth.
o Once operational, the Sharada Peeth corridor will become the second religious passage in territory controlled
by Pakistan, following the Kartarpur corridor, connecting the two neighbouring nations.
Significance of Sharda Peeth
• Religious significance: It is also one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas, or a “Grand Shakti Peethas” and is considered to
be the abode of Hindu Goddess Saraswati.
o Goddess Sharada, the goddess of learning and knowledge, is regarded by Hindus as an incarnation of the goddess
Saraswati.
o Goddess Sharada is considered by Kashmiri Pandits as their kuldevi (principal deity). She is also referred to by
many as Kashmira Puravasini (resident of Kashmir).
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• Educational significance: The peeth was also one of the universities of higher learning of Vedic works, scriptures,
and commentaries. It was at par with the ancient seats of learning at Nalanda and Takshila.
o It is believed that Sharda University had a script known as Sharada.
o The university also had over 5,000 scholars and the biggest library.
o Renowned scholar Adi Shankaracharya is said to have studied at Sharada University.
o Ramanujacharya, one of the most important exponents of the Sri Vaishnav tradition is also believed to have
visited Sharada Peeth & written his treatise, Sri Bhasya.

8.4. NATIONAL GAMES OF INDIA

Why in the news?
Recently, 37th edition of National Games concluded in Goa.
About National Games
• The National Games of India is an Olympic-style multi-sport event
where athletes from the various states and Union Territories of India
compete for medals.
o Services Sports Control Board (SSCB), the sports team of the
Indian Armed Forces, also competes at the National Games.
• The duration and the regulations of the National Games are entirely
within the jurisdiction of the Indian Olympic Association.
• About National Games:
o 1st edition of the Indian Olympic Games (former name of
National Games) at Lahore in an undivided Punjab in 1924.
o After the eighth edition in 1938 in Calcutta, the event was christened as the National Games.
o Lucknow hosted the National Games in its first post-independence avatar.
o The first National Games on the lines of the Olympics were held in 1985 in New Delhi.
• About 37th edition of National Games
o The Raja Bhalendra Singh trophy was given to Maharashtra for overall championship in national games.
✓ Raja Bhalendra Singh was considered responsible for bringing the 9th Asian Games to Delhi in 1982 and
organizing them.
o Best woman athlete trophy was given to Pranati Naik and Sanyukta Kate while best man athlete trophy was given
to Shrihari Natraj.
o The torch for national games was handed over to Uttarakhand as 38th National Games will be organized there.
✓ The 39th edition will be held in Meghalaya.

8.5. GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATIONS(GI) TAGS

Why in the News?
Various products from Uttarakhand have been given the GI tag by the Geographical Indications Registry.
About Geographical Indication (GI) tags
• A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are
due to that origin.
o In order to function as a GI, a sign must identify a product as originating in a given place.
• GIs are part of the intellectual property rights that comes under the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial
Property.
o They are also covered under Articles 22 to 24 of the Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS)
Agreement, which was part of the Agreements concluded in the Uruguay Round of GATT negotiations.
• In India, GI registration is administered by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act
of 1999.
• GI can be registered: On agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts, and industrial products,
etc.
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• Duration: Once a product has been granted a GI tag, it is valid for a period of ten years.
o Renewal is possible for further periods of 10 years each.
• Nodal Ministry: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Significance: Confers legal protection against unauthorised use, boosts exports, etc.

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8.6. NEWS IN SHORTS
8.6.1. DURGAWATI DEVI (1907 – 1999)
• Recently, the birth anniversary of Durgawati Devi
popularly known as Durga Bhabhi or Agni of India was
celebrated.
• She was married to Bhagwati Charan Vohra, an Indian
revolutionary associated with the Hindustan Socialist
Republic Association (HSRA).
o Bhagwati Charan Vohra was the author of the
famous article titled The Philosophy of Bomb in
which he persuaded youth to come forward and
join revolutionaries.
o He died when a testing bomb exploded in his hand.
• Contribution to the Indian Freedom Movement
o Durga Bhabhi was an active member of the
Naujawan Bharat Sabha (founded by Bhagat Singh
in 1926).
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o She assisted in the escape of Bhagat Singh from
Lahore after the Saunders killing (1928).
o She openly opposed the sentence awarded to
Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru.
✓ As an act of revenge, Durga Bhabi decided to
kill Lord Hailey (ex-Governor of Punjab), who
was also a staunch enemy of the
revolutionaries.
✓ While the Governor managed to evade the
attack, his aides sustained injuries.
Subsequently, she was arrested and sentenced
to three years of imprisonment.
• After independence she opened a school for poor
children in Lucknow.
8.6.2. UNESCO CREATIVE CITIES
NETWORK (UCCN)
• Gwalior, Kozhikode joined the UNESCO Creative Cities
Network (UCCN)
• They are among the 55 cities that joined UCCN on
World Cities Day (31st of October).
• New cities were acknowledged for their strong
commitment to harnessing culture and creativity as
part of their development strategies.
• Kozhikode (‘City of Literature’)
○ It has a robust literary foundation with over 500
libraries and more than 70 publishers; It also
boasts a high level of literary education.
○ It is also a permanent venue for the annual Kerala
Literature Festival and numerous book festivals.
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• Gwalior (‘City of Music’)
○ It has a rich musical history encompassing legends
like Mian Tansen (Ramtanu Pandey) and Baliti
Bawra.
○ It is also considered the birthplace of Gwalior
Gharana (the oldest Hindustani musical Gharana).
• Other Indian cities on UCCN: Mumbai (Film), Chennai
(Music), Hyderabad (Gastronomy), Varanasi (Music),
Jaipur (Crafts and Folk art) and Srinagar (Crafts and Folk
art).
• About UCCN
○ It was created in 2004.
○ The UCCN tag gives global recognition and boosts
tourism.
○ It has 350 creative cities in more than 100
countries, spanning seven creative fields:
✓ Crafts and Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy,
Literature, Media Arts, and Music.
8.6.3. PANAMALAI PAINTINGS (TAMIL
NADU)
• About Sea buckthorn
• 1,300-year-old paintings at Talagirishwara temple are
fading, as per reports.
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• The painting shows Lord Shiva with eight hands
dancing, known as Latathilagabhani, being watched by
Goddess Parvathi.
• These mural paintings were created after covering
stonewalls with a paste made of limestone and sand.
• The paintings bear a close resemblance to paintings in
Ajantha and Chithannavasal.
• The temple was constructed by Pallava king
Narasimhavarman II, popularly known as Rajasimha.
• Rajasimha’s Sanskrit epigraphs are found here.
8.6.4. KOLKALI DANCE
• Recently, Kolkali dance was performed in Thrissur,
Kerala in remembrance of St. Thomas’ arrival in India.
• About Kolkali Dance
o Folk art form, performed in North Malabar region
of State.
✓ It is referred to as Kolattam and Kolamu in
Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, respectively.
o It draws elements from Kalaripayattu, a martial art
of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
o Each performer holds a stick and moves in a circle,
striking the sticks.
✓ As music gradually rises in pitch, the pace
increases, and the circle expands and
contracts as the dance progresses.
o It is performed during the paddy harvest season.
8.6.5. VAJRA MUSHTI KALAGA
• “Vajra Mushti Kalaga’’ is a form of wrestling different
from conventional grappling and entails two jettys
(fighters).
• Wrestlers use ‘Vajramushti’, knuckle-dusters adorned
with diamonds as a mark of weaponry to engage in
immaculate battle.
o Whosoever draws the blood from the opponent’s
head first is declared the winner.
• It is held on the ninth day of Navaratri at the Mysuru
Palace (Mysore, Karnataka).
• It was first mentioned in Manasollasa, a manual of
warfare of King Someshwara III of the Chalukya dynasty
(1124–1138).
• Fernano Nuniz, a Portuguese traveller noticed this
form of wrestling in Vijayanagar empire.
8.6.6. SEA BUCKTHORN
• Sea buckthorn fruit from Ladakh has been awarded a
Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
• It is the fourth GI tag In Ladakh, after Apricot (Raktsey
Karpo), Pashmina, and Ladakhi Wood Carving.
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 ○ Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a plant
found throughout Europe and Asia.
○ In India, it is found above the tree line in the
Himalayan region, generally in dry areas such as
the cold deserts of Ladakh and Spiti.
• The GI tag is regulated by the Geographical Indications
of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act of 1999.
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8.8.7. ERRATA
In September 2023 Monthly Magazine, under Article 8.4
Santiniketan, it was incorrectly mentioned that Tagore
composed Vande Mataram (national song of India).
Correct information is ‘Jana Gana Mana’ (National
Anthem of India) was composed by Rabindranath Tagore.
Bankim Chandra Chatterjee composed Vande Mataram
(National Song of India).
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8. CULTURE
8.1. GARBA
Why in the News?
‘Garba of Gujarat’ has been inscribed in the Representative List of Intangible
Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity by the United Nations Educational,
Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
More on the news
• ‘Garba Of Gujarat’ was added in the ICH list under the provisions of the
2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible
Cultural Heritage during the 18th meeting of the
Intergovernmental Committee (IGC) for the
Safeguarding of the ICH held in Kasane, Botswana.
• It is the 15th ICH element from India to join this list.
About Garba
• It is a ritualistic and devotional folk dance that is
performed on the occasion of the Hindu festival of
Navaratri, which is dedicated to the worship of the
feminine energy or ‘Shakti’.
• Word "garba" comes from the Sanskrit word garbha,
meaning "womb."
• Key Features of the Dance
o Takes place around a perforated earthenware pot
lit with an oil lamp called a garbha deep ("womb lamp"), or an
image of the mother goddess Amba.
o Dancers move around the pot in an anti-clockwise circle using
simple feet movements while singing and clapping hands in unison.
o Accompanied by traditional dhol/drum, and other musical
instruments.
o Apart from Religious and Spiritual connect, it is a symbol of respect
towards the women.
About UNESCO’s Convention for the Safeguarding of the ICH, 2003
• The UNESCO meeting in Paris adopted this convention in 2003 for the
Safeguarding of the ICH.
• IGC, for the Safeguarding of the ICH, was established within UNESCO, to examine requests submitted by States
Parties for the inscription of intangible heritage on the Lists.
o IGC consists of 24 members and is elected in the General Assembly of the Convention according to the principles
of equitable geographical representation and rotation.
o India was elected to the IGC in 2022 for a tenure of 4 years.
o In the past, India has served two terms i.e., one from2006 to 2010 and the other from 2014 to 2018.
• About intangible cultural heritage
o Article 2 of this Convention defines “intangible cultural heritage” as the practices, representations, expressions,
knowledge, skills – as well as the instruments, objects, artefacts and cultural spaces associated therewith – that
communities, groups and, in some cases, individuals recognize as part of their cultural heritage.
o They are manifested in the following domains:
✓ oral traditions and expressions;
✓ performing arts;
✓ social practices, rituals and festive events;
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 ✓ knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universe;
✓ traditional craftsmanship.
List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of India
Kutiyattam, Sanskrit theatre Buddhist chanting of Ladakh
Tradition of Vedic chanting Sankirtana, ritual singing, drumming and dancing of
Manipur
Ramlila: The traditional performance of the Ramayana Traditional brass and copper craft of utensil making
among the Thatheras of Jandiala Guru, Punjab
Ramman: Religious festival and ritual theatre of the Garhwal Himalayas Nawrouz
Chhau dance Yoga
Kalbelia folk songs and dances of Rajasthan Kumbh Mela
Mudiyettu, ritual theatre and dance drama of Kerala Durga Puja in Kolkata
India's Steps for intangible cultural heritage
• Sangeet Natak Akademi, an autonomous organisation under the Ministry of Culture, as nodal office for matters
relating to ICH including for preparation of the nomination dossiers for the Representative List of UNESCO.
• National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, to recognize the diversity of Indian culture embedded in its intangible
heritage.
• Schemes like Global engagement schemes, ‘Safeguarding the Intangible Cultural Heritage and Diverse Cultural
Traditions of India’ scheme, etc.

8.2. NEWS IN SHORTS

8.2.1. BALI YATRA
• On the occasion of Kartika Purnima, Asia’s largest o Its intrepid sailors establishing maritime links with
open-air annual trade fair Bali yatra inaugurated on the Roman Empire, Africa, Persian coast, Arabian
the banks of Mahanadi River in Cuttack, Odisha. countries, China, Japan, Siam, Champa, Burma,
o People of Odisha float small boats made of Ceylon, and more.
banana peels and Sola in nearby ponds and rivers o Notably, Kalidas in Raghuvamsa hailed the king of
to recall the glories of daring Sea Voyages of Kalinga as the "Lord of Sea."
ancient Kalinga.
• About Bali yatra fair
o It commemorates Odisha's historical ties with Bali
(Indonesia), and its rich maritime legacy of
transoceanic voyages to Southeast Asian nations.
✓ Festivals ‘Masakapan Ke Tukad’ in Bali and
‘Loikrathong’ in Thaliand bear similarities
with Bali Yatra fair and also encompasses
floating of toy boats.
o It is also associated with legend ‘Taapoi’ which
reminds the traditional memories of a young
maiden waiting for the return of her sailor
brothers.
o However, there is also a belief that Vaishnavite
Saint Sri Chaitanya landed in Cuttack after crossing
Bali on his way to Puri on this auspicious day.
o ‘Bhalukuni Osha’ or ‘Khudurukuni Osha’ and
‘Bada Osha’ are the key rituals associated with this
fair.
• Odisha as a maritime heritage.
o Odisha, kown as Kalinga in ancient times, held a
prominent maritime position in India's history.

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8.2.2. GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION (GI) o Since 2018, a total of 11 Khelo India Games have
TAG been successfully held.
✓ This includes 5 Khelo India Youth Games, 3
• Recently, 4 products from Meghalaya received GI Tag. Khelo India University Games and 3 Khelo
o Lakadong turmeric: known for its high Curcumin India Winter Games.
content.
o Garo dakmanda: Traditional dress worn by Garo
tribe.
o Larnai pottery: Black pottery from Jaintia Hills
District.
o Garo chubitchi: Traditional rice based alcoholic
beverage of Garo tribe.
• About GI Tag
o Given by Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
o Administered by Geographical Indications of
Goods (Registration and Protection) Act of 1999.
o Once awarded is valid for 10 years.
8.2.3. BOOKER PRIZE
• Irish novelist Paul Lynch won the Booker Prize in 2023
for his 5th novel ‘Prophet Song’.
• About Booker Prize
o Founded in 1969, the Booker Prize is open to
English-language novels from any country that
have been published in Britain and Ireland.
o It aimed to stimulate the reading and discussion
of contemporary fiction. 8.2.5. INDIRA GANDHI PEACE PRIZE,
o Some Indian-origin authors who won the prize 2023
include VS Naipaul (1971), Salman Rushdie (1981),
Arundhati Roy (1997), among others. • Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and
• Note: Booker Prize is given for fiction books written in Development for 2023 has been jointly awarded to
English only whereas International Booker Prize is Daniel Barenboim and Ali Abu Award .
awarded for books translated into English. o They have brought together the youth and
peoples of Israel and the Arab World for a non-
8.2.4. KHELO INDIA PARA GAMES 2023 violent resolution of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
• 1st edition of Khelo India Para Games (KIPG) 2023 was • About Indira Gandhi Peace Prize
organized in December 2023 in Delhi. o It has been conferred every year since 1986 by
• It was held across 7 sports Disciplines: Para Archery, Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust.
o It consists of a monetary award of `25 lakh along
Par Athletics, Para Badminton, Para Table Tennis, Para
Powerlifting, CP Football, Para Shooting. with a citation.
• Its mascot was Ujjwala (a sparrow). 8.2.6. SAHITYA AKADEMI AWARDS 2023
• Haryana topped the KIPG 2023 medal table, followed
• Sahitya Akademi announced its annual Sahitya
by Uttar Pradesh.
Akademi Awards in 24 languages.
• KIPG is the latest addition to the government of India’s
o Besides 22 languages enumerated in the 8th
Khelo India initiative, which also includes the Khelo
Schedule of the Constitution.
India Youth Games, Khelo India University Games and
o Akademi has recognised English and Rajasthani as
Khelo India Winter Games.
well.
• About Khelo India Games
• About Sahitya Akademi
o Organized under a Central Sector Scheme named
o It is an autonomous body under Ministry of
as Khelo India Scheme.
Culture.
o Khelo India, which translates to ‘Let’s play India’,
o It was founded in 1954.
was proposed by the government of India in 2017
o Registered as a society under the Societies
to revive India’s sporting culture by engaging with
Registration Act, 1860.
children at the grassroots level.
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 o Other awards given by Akademi are Bal Sahitya
Puraskar, Yuva Puraskar.
8.2.7. UNESCO’S 2023 PRIX VERSAILLES
• Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru
(Karnataka) was honored at UNESCO's 2023 Prix
Versailles, and named among the 'World’s most
beautiful airports'.
• Granted annually at UNESCO since 2015, the Prix
Versailles consists of architecture awards that
showcase the finest contemporary achievements
worldwide.
○ The Official list aligns with the with the principles
of intelligent sustainability and takes into
consideration projects’ ecological, social and
cultural impacts into consideration.
○ It highlights the primary role of the Laureates in
beautifying and improving the living
environment.
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8.2.8. URBICIDE
• Targeting of Gaza’s hospitals, bakeries, and schools by
Israel is being considered as urbicide by several
activists.
• Urbicide is Latin for ‘city killing’.
o It refers to an act of ritualised, premeditated
violence on built infrastructures.
o In the 1980s, scholars used the term to describe
the extensive destruction of Balkan towns during
the Yugoslavic wars from 1992 to 1996.
o This concept goes beyond merely destroying cities
physically. It also eradicates memories, identities,
and cultures embedded in a city's fabric.
8.2.9. ERRATA
• In September 2023 Monthly Magazine, under Article
8.5.6. Statue of Oneness, it was incorrectly mentioned
that Statue of equality was dedicated to Srinivas
Ramanujan.
o Correct information is Statue of equality was
dedicated to Vaishnavite Ramanujacharya
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